FDA enhances transparency in chemical reviews despite budget constraints

U.S – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently updated its list of chemicals under review, shedding light on the agency’s ongoing efforts to assess the safety of chemicals in the food supply.

Despite budget limitations, the FDA is prioritizing transparency and accountability in its post-market assessments, aiming to keep the public informed about the status of chemical reviews and risk management actions.

The updated list includes a range of chemicals, from food ingredients and contaminants to food contact substances, providing insights into the FDA’s risk assessment and management processes.

These substances encompass mycotoxins such as T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, and zearalenone, along with compounds like potassium bromate, propylparaben, and 3-Monochloropropane-1,2-diol (MCPD) esters and Glycidyl Esters (GE).

Additionally, the list incorporates 4-Methylimidazole (CAS Number 822-36-6), arsenic, certain authorized PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) in food contact and paperboard, Bisphenol A, brominated vegetable oil, cadmium, Red Dye No. 3, fluorinated high-density polyethylene, Irgafos 168, lead, mercury, partially hydrogenated oil, PFAS in food contact applications, phthalates, thallium, and titanium dioxide.

While acknowledging budget constraints, the FDA’s new Deputy Director for the proposed Human Foods Program, Jim Jones, emphasized the importance of transparency and resource allocation in advancing food chemical safety.

He highlighted the agency’s efforts to increase visibility into the chemical reassessment process, allowing stakeholders and the public to track progress and understand where the FDA stands regarding risk management actions.

Jones pointed out that while the current budget may limit the speed and number of chemical reviews, the agency is dedicated to increasing transparency and sharing information about ongoing assessments.

Looking ahead, Jones expressed intentions to continue updating the list throughout the year and providing regular insights into the agency’s review process. He emphasized the significance of adequately resourcing the FDA’s efforts to ensure effective post-market assessments and risk management actions.

For all the latest food safety news from Africa and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.