Food Safety Overhaul: Ending Self-Regulation of Chemicals in Food
This bill fundamentally changes how food additives deemed "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) are approved, mandating written FDA acceptance instead of relying on manufacturer self-certification. It prohibits the use of substances known to cause cancer or developmental toxicity, thereby increasing public health protection, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Furthermore, it establishes a new FDA office to systematically reassess the safety of existing additives.
Key points
End of Self-Certification: Manufacturers must obtain written FDA approval for substances designated as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) before they can be used in food.
Increased Health Protection: Substances known to cause cancer or reproductive/developmental toxicity cannot be classified as GRAS and must be removed from the food supply.
New FDA Office: A dedicated office will be established within the FDA to systematically reassess the safety of at least 10 food additives every three years.
Transparency and Ethics: Safety data for additives will be made public, and experts reviewing these substances must be free from conflicts of interest with manufacturers.
Expired
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