NEW European rules reducing pesticide levels in baby foods should reassure Bolton parents, claims a local Euro MP.

Existing legislation already restricts pesticide residues in infant-formulae and cereal-based baby foods to extremely low levels. But scientists say that, in the case of five types of pesticide, even these maximum levels may be too high. The new law sets reduced limits, and also outlaws 11 pesticides used by farmers on crops intended for baby foods. Bolton Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies has welcomed the tighter controls.

He said: "Every parent wants to ensure that the food they give their children is as safe."

and healthy as can be. Babies and infants can be more susceptible to pesticides than adults, partly because of their smaller size and because their bodies are still developing."

"I'm pleased that the European Commission acted swiftly on the latest scientific findings to bring forward these set new standards for baby food sold throughout the EU."