DeLauro Statement on FDA's Decision to Allow Irradiation of Leafy Greens

Statement

DeLauro Statement on FDA's Decision to Allow Irradiation of Leafy Greens

Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-3), chairwoman of the Agriculture - Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding the FDA'a announcement that they will allow food producers to irradiate leafy greens, such as fresh spinach and iceberg lettuce.

"It is disappointing that, instead of pursuing a comprehensive, multi- layered approach toward reforming our food safety system, the FDA has chosen a more limited approach by moving forward with just the irradiation process.

"Serious reforms to our food safety system should include increased inspections of vegetable growing and processing facilities and better coordination among federal, state and local governments. It should not be limited to a process that has the potential of altering the odor, texture, and nutritional value of foods.

"I am also concerned that implementing an irradiation system without accompanied by other reforms will provide a reason for growers and processors to ignore the implementation of important food safety practices that are critical toward minimizing food-borne illnesses."

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