Source: Fortune
Summary
The FDA has proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal aims to close a regulatory loophole that has allowed thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the new rule, companies would have to document and submit their safety rationale for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate potential risks. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
The FDA’s proposed rule change is a response to criticism that the current system allows companies to self-certify ingredients as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) without independent review. The new rule would require companies to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients, giving the FDA greater visibility into the food supply. However, consumer advocates argue that the proposal does not go far enough, as it does not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. The proposal is part of a broader effort to bring greater scrutiny to the food industry, including the development of a definition of “ultraprocessed food.”
The FDA’s move is a small step towards addressing the issue, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Author: Evan Null
