Extraction solvents used in the production of foodstuffs and food ingredients (3rd amend. Directive 88/344/EEC)

The Committee approves the proposal directed mainly to enable technical amendments to Directive 88/344/EEC to be made by a Committee procedure, rather than passing through a new Council Directive for each amendment. A Committee procedure allows for timely application of technical changes following evaluations by the Scientific Committee for Food (SCF). On the other hand, this procedure does not involve the citizens adequately. On balance, the Economic and Social Committee accepts the committee procedure proposed by the Commission, but insists on prior consultation of the various socio-economic partners represented on the Advisory Committee for Food. The Committee considers that the deletions and additions of solvents proposed are in line with the findings of the SCF and present needs of users. �