Food companies need mandatory minimums for consumer abuse: NDP

WELLAND – New Democrats reacted today to disturbing new internal documents obtained by Postmedia News that outline another appalling failure in the Conservative government’s record on food safety.

The internal documents also exposed dramatically overstated claims of low sodium and fat levels, as well as inaccurate claims about whole grains, baked goods, candy and even mislabelled meat products.

“We found out last week that nutritional information on the packaging of Canadian food products is not even close to what companies claim,” said Malcolm Allen (Welland), New Democrat Food Safety critic. “Parents rely on this information to choose the proper food for their children, to consider things like sodium or fat content.”

Through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the government has the ability to prosecute such offenders, but has so far refused to do so. Allen said he will be pursuing action in parliament that would put in place mandatory fines for companies who abuse Canadian consumers.

“New Democrats will work towards a real system for punishing violators, not issue toothless warnings on paper,” said Allen. “Consumers are relying on this information to make safe, healthy choices and this Conservative government is absolutely failing them.”

As doctors warn of possible epidemic levels of type 2 diabetes and the extensive cost that would put on our healthcare system, Allen says the government must improve its oversight.

One of the most alarming findings was how the government has chosen to deal with the situation. The government is working to educate violators and will occasionally send a warning letter.

“Warning letters?” questions Allen. “I’m sorry, but a warning letter for lying to Canadians about the food they consume is simply not good enough.”