There is no discrimination in the choice of people entitled to benefit from EU food products for people in need, the Rural Affairs Ministry said.

It said that the distribution criteria used had been in place since 2005 when the scheme started being implemented.

The criteria, established by the EU, is that the food should go to people falling below the basic standard of living, people in non-governmental institutions, such as orphanages and people in need of social assistance.

It said that when stocks were limited, preference was given to people in possession of a social security certificate, orphanages and other institutions taking care of those in most need.

The competent authority was also willing to consider the cases of people or families who sought assistance even if they did not meet this criteria. This showed that there was no discrimination based on race, sex or nationality.

The Payments Agency said it had always encouraged parish entities and non-governmental organisations to take part so that the greatest number of people possible would benefit.