KANSAS CITY — The FDA’s decision to ban Red No. 3 in food and drinks might not be the best use of its resources. Since the announcement on January 15, many have questioned how this move improves the safety of our food supply.
The FDA launched its Human Foods Program (HFP) last September. The goal is clear: make food safer and healthier for everyone. The HFP aims to prevent foodborne illnesses, lower chronic diet-related conditions, and ensure that food chemicals are safe.
One part of this program is the Office of Food Chemical Safety, which is responsible for monitoring the safety of food chemicals. This office includes a new Post-Market Assessment section, which the FDA admits has lacked strength in the past. Deputy Commissioner Jim Jones pointed out that the FDA has not effectively confirmed the safety of food additives after they are already in use.
When the ban on Red No. 3 was announced, many hoped it would highlight the FDA’s new systematic approach to ensuring food safety. However, the agency stated that there isn’t any solid evidence showing that Red No. 3 is dangerous for humans. The FDA explained that the way this dye caused cancer in male rats does not relate to how it affects humans. Typical human exposure levels are much lower than those seen to cause harm in rats, and studies in both animals and humans have not shown dangerous effects.
If Red No. 3 is deemed safe, why ban it? The FDA’s action responded to a petition in 2022 from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) and other health advocates. They cited the Delaney Clause from 1960, which bans additives linked to cancer in any form. Although high doses of Red No. 3 stirred concerns in rats, there’s no evidence it would do the same in humans.
The FDA noted that the scientific data about Red No. 3’s impact on rats compelled them to act, even though it may not apply to humans. They stood firm that the law requires this ban.
With various states proposing to ban different food ingredients, it’s vital for Congress to keep a close eye on the FDA’s efforts. The focus should be on using sound scientific findings to enhance food safety laws. Otherwise, we might end up with a confusing mix of state regulations. It’s essential to ensure safety practices focus on protecting public health effectively.
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