----------forwarded message---------- Date: Mon, 2 Apr 2001 To: [log in to unmask] THE DEADLINE has been EXTENDED to May 3, 2001 FDA has released inadequate "proposed" rules re: genetically engineered foods (GEFs). Comments are needed. Comment electronically at: http://www.foodsafetynow.org Hit " Take Action Now" or write to: Docket No. 00N-1396 & Docket No. 00D-1598 FDA Commissioner, Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305) Food and Drug Administration 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061 Rockville, MD 20852 SAMPLE LETTER Genetic engineering involves manipulations of genes between different species and allows scientists to bypass the natural barriers which protect the genetic integrity of species. Foods containing or produced from genetic engineering can cause allergic responses, be toxic, have lowered nutritional value and/or compromise immune responses in consumers. Likewise, genetically engineered crops can have unpredictable, irreversible changes to the environment. FDA's proposal for companies to voluntary consult with FDA concerning the safety of their foods is totally inadequate. FDA must require mandatory pre-market safety testing. FDA's proposed rule that environmental review procedures be exempt under the National Environmental Policy Act does not protect the environment. FDA must require mandatory pre-market environmental review. FDA's proposed rule makes all labeling of genetically engineered foods (GEFs) only voluntary. This does not protect my right-to-know or allow me consumer choice to protect my family and the environment. Voluntary labeling unfairly reverses the financial burden onto producers who do not use GEFs. Mandatory labeling is essential for the traceability of GEF products throughout the food supply for health professionals. Mandatory labeling also protects overseas markets for farmers. FDA must require mandatory labeling of GEFs. FDA's proposed rule is unlikely to provide the public with adequate information on GEFs for independent review. The FDA notes that producers of GEFs may claim that any such information, including the premarket notification, is trade secret or confidential business information subject to exemption from public disclosure requirements. FDA must require full disclosure. All GEFs should be taken off supermarket shelves until mandatory safety testing and labeling of all GEFs, pre-market environmental review, and full disclosure are established. Signed and dated - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To get off the CONS-SPST-BIOTECH-FORUM list, send any message to: [log in to unmask] ---------- Posted by: ---------- Ericka Dana Organic Consumers Association Regional Coordinator http://www.purefood.org <[log in to unmask]> Sierra Club Iowa Chapter Executive Committee http://www.sierraclub.org/chapters/ia/ Managing Editor, Iowa City Area Sierra Club News Iowa City Area Sierra Club Executive Committee http://www.sierraclub.org/chapters/ia/icag/ Iowa Green Party Agriculture Committee Director, Midwest Anti-Drift Coalition http://www.IowaFarmer.com/000617/drift2.htm http://www.StopDrift.org (under construction) ---------- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To get off the IOWA-TOPICS list, send any message to: [log in to unmask]