FDA Affirms Irradiation Of Lettuce And Spinach Regardless of Objections

by Prolonged Island Attorney Paul A. Lauto, Esq.

The regulation of irradiation in the production, processing and managing of our meals, is set forth in 21 CFR 179.  It has lengthy considering that offered for the irradiation of meats, poultry, fruits, vegetables, spices and more and is largely controlled by the FDA, since it is regarded to be a “food additive.”  The FDA stated purpose for approving the irradiation of our food, is to manage foods borne pathogens and extend shelf existence.

A petition was filed by the National Meals Processors Association which is now component of the notorious Grocery Companies Association, to amend 21 CFR 179  to, among other factors, finalize the extention of irradiation to fresh iceberg lettuce and fresh spinach.  Notwithstanding several objections filed with requests for a keep pending a hearing, the FDA has granted the petition.  In denying all requests for a stay and hearing the FDA concluded that, “…the objections do not raise issues of materials fact that justify a hearing… .”  Regrettably, the FDA sounds a lot more like a judge issuing a court decision rather than a governmental company made to protect the people.

Probably the FDA must be much more concerned with the notion of “error on the side of caution” rather than extending the shelf life of our meals.  In the days preceding our “advanced technologies,” we didn’t require to irradiate, bleach or label our meals natural.  Probably the cause we have created a “need”  for these items right now, has anything to do with the ill conceived and cash driven foods manufacturing process in our nation that is controlled by large enterprise.

The FDA reliance on irradiation permits the problem of unsanitary production, processing and handling of our food to carry on, without addressing the result in of the dilemma.  If the FDA’s job description was altered from solving problems in our foods supply to masking them, then it seems that the American people did not get the memo, nor need to they accept it.  It has turn out to be painfully self-evident, that American buyers should remain informed and vigilant in safeguarding themselves.

Extended Island Attorney
Paul A. Lauto, Esq.
www.liattorney.com

FDA Affirms Irradiation Of Lettuce And Spinach Regardless of Objections