ANOTHER MEAT LABELLING controversy has hit the UK, just weeks after horse DNA was found in a number of beef burger products sold at various supermarkets.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed that tests found traces of pork DNA in pies and pasties described – and served – as Halal.
Under Islamic law, Muslims are not allowed to eat pork or pork products. Halal foods must be prepared in a certain way.
The Food Standards Agency said the food had been supplied to prisons in England and Wales. The company involved has not been named but the local authority is investigating how the contamination came about. It is also examining the possibility that the products were distributed further across the UK.
The watchdog said it was “an unacceptable situation”.
“People have the right to expect that the food they are eating is correctly described,” the FSA continued in a statement. “It is the responsibility of food businesses to ensure the food they sell contains what it says on the label. We are considering, with the local authority, whether legal action is appropriate following the investigation.”
It has called an urgent meeting of major retailers and suppliers, to be held on Monday.
The Prison Service said it was investigating the incident as a matter of urgency.
Justice Minister Jeremy Wright acknowledged that “this must be distressing for those affected”.
The Ministry said it ordered tests after the recent high profile incident where horse DNA was found in beef burgers.
The contract with the supplier has been suspended.
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