US agency did not perform safety checks of more than 100 food ingredients, analysis finds
The Bottom Line
Over 100 food ingredients in US products lack direct FDA safety review, an analysis found.
How This Affects You
Many common foods you eat may contain ingredients that have not been directly reviewed for safety by the FDA, relying instead on company assessments.
A new analysis of federal records by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) indicates that over 100 substances used in common US foods, supplements, and beverages have not undergone health and safety review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The EWG's review found these unreviewed ingredients in products such as Capri Sun drinks and Quaker Oats snack bars. This situation arises from companies utilizing a regulatory pathway that allows ingredients to be deemed "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) without direct FDA approval. The findings raise questions regarding the regulatory oversight of numerous food additives currently in the US food supply.
What's Being Done
Actions, solutions, and how to get involved
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is analyzing federal records to identify food ingredients lacking FDA safety review, advocating for stricter oversight of the 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) pathway. They recommend that the FDA update its regulations to ensure all food additives undergo mandatory safety assessments. Readers can support organizations like the EWG, contact their elected representatives to advocate for stronger food safety laws, and stay informed about food additive regulations.
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