Health Law

As outbreaks abound, where is S 510 (a/k/a Food Safety Modernization Act)?

By Drew Falkenstein

1.  Salmonella outbreak linked to Daniele Inc salami products, and, ultimately, to contaminated red and black pepper from Wholesome Spice Company and Overseas Mincing Spice Company.  252 people sickened in 44 states and the District of Columbia.

2.  Shigella outbreak linked to Lombard, Illinois Subway restaurant.  Hundreds ill.

3.  E. coli O111 outbreak linked to food served at Colorado prison.  At least 11 ill.

4.  E. coli O145 outbreak linked to common food item served in Ohio and Michigan.  47 confirmed illnesses; victims still being counted.

These are just a few examples of food safety events (or failures) in 2010.  In addition, one of the largest food recalls in history has occurred this year, concerning hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) from Basic Flavors Foods in Nevada.

Meanwhile, S 510, the important food safety legislation that the House passed last year, sits mired in the Senate, awaiting debate and a vote.  The Food Safety Modernization Act would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to expand the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to regulate food, including by authorizing the Secretary to suspend the registration of a food facility.

Full post as published by Food Poison Blog on April 29, 2010 (boomark / email).