Moves which could have threatened one of Europe's favourite fast foods have been defeated in the European Parliament today (13th December) with the help of Conservative MEPs including East Midlands MEP, Rupert Matthews.
Socialists and Greens wanted to veto a European Commission proposal to formalise and regulate the use of phosphates in kebab meat. If they had succeeded it would have placed a question mark over the doner kebab sector which employs an estimated 200,000 people across the European Union.
Phosphates bind the kebab meat and prevent it falling apart on the spit. They also ensure it cooks more evenly, reducing health risks.
Following the vote, Rupert commented:
“Despite the pitta-ful puns in the media about this issue recently, there is a serious point here. If this vote had gone the other way, the repercussions could have been vast.
“Not only would the doner kebab itself be at risk, but thousands of jobs could have been threatened.”
“Doner kebabs are one of the most popular fast foods in the UK with an estimated 1.3 million sold every year. I am pleased that everyone across Europe can continue to enjoy eating their kebabs unhindered.”