New Food Safety Legislation Being Protested

Food Industry Protests Food Safety Plan Obama Signs Sweeping Food Safety Reform Bill. According to Bloomberg News, an Obama administration plan to prevent food contamination is being opposed by a coalition of 33 food industry groups representing frozen foods, meat, dairy, fresh produce and others. In a letter sent by the alliance of food producers, they warn that the $220 million plan would result in higher food prices for consumers. FDA spokesperson Doug Karas fired back in an email, “The fees are minimal compared with the cost of foodborne illnesses, which the act seeks to reduce. Such illnesses cost $77.7 billion a year, according to a 2012 study.” Stricter Regulations to Reduce Foodborne Illness Under this new legislation, importers will be held accountable for the safety of their foods, and theFDA will gain the power to demand, rather than recommend food recalls of contaminated food. A new tracking system will make it easier to pinpoint the source of outbreaks. Most experts in food safety agree that the plan will improve food safety, though the price of food will likely be affected. If you suspect that you or a loved one has been sickened by tainted food contact us for a free case appraisal.