Understanding the FDA’s New Communication Changes: What They Mean for Your Food Safety and Consumer Rights

— OPINION —

By Siobhan DeLancey, RVT, MPH

This week marks the end of my 21-year journey with the FDA. As someone who has worked in communications, I focused primarily on food safety, both for people and animals. My last role involved managing communications for the Center for Veterinary Medicine.

Recently, the agency faced significant changes. On April Fool’s Day, many communication roles were cut. Thankfully, I was eligible for “early retirement.” But beyond my personal experience, I want to share insights about what this means for food safety.

Communication is vital. As my former boss, Steve Solomon, put it, it’s about sharing stories. Our job was to explain actions taken by the FDA, keeping the public informed about health matters. We fought misinformation and worked hard to ensure transparency. Without strong communication, the agency can seem opaque.

The Center for Veterinary Medicine, where I worked, is often overlooked. While we don’t directly handle food safety, we regulate the food and medications for animals that produce the meat, milk, and eggs that many families consume. We also oversee pet food, which can impact not just pets but also young children who may encounter it while exploring.

When food safety issues arose, like harmful pathogens in pet food, we responded quickly. We often worked late nights and weekends to provide essential updates to consumers. That dedication aimed to keep everyone safe from potential threats in their food supply.

Now, with the recent changes, vital communications may dwindle. We might not see safety alerts, bird flu updates, or information on contaminants like PFAS. The agency’s ability to hold companies accountable through communication has significantly weakened.

Furthermore, the cuts to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) teams within the agency further complicate transparency. It may soon become more challenging to retrieve information about the FDA’s actions. This environment raises concerns about accountability and public awareness.

It’s alarming when communication channels are restricted. The current administration has shown a troubling willingness to silence voices that oppose its narrative. If it can stifle public servants, it may not be long before others feel the effects.

As we navigate these changes, we all have a stake in food safety. For a deeper look into these issues, consider following reports from reputable sources such as the FDA Press Announcements.

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