Food companies want strict regulation of 'farmaceuticals'

Food & Drink Weekly, Feb 17, 2003

The nation's food manufacturers are urging FDA and USDA to implement stringent new regulations governing plant-made pharmaceuticals (PMPs) "to ensure continued consumer confidence in the absolute safety of the U.S. food supply."

In comments filed in response to proposed PMP guidelines published by FDA, the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA) points out what it says is a need to include clear direction in the final guidelines for maintaining the purity of the U.S. food supply.

The organization indicates that it supports the potential benefits of PMPs, but says there should be tighter regulations before the technology is more widely used in new field trials approved by USDA or in large-scale commercialization.

"Plant-made pharmaceuticals aren't meant to make it to the dinner table," said GMA Senior Vice President Mary Sophos. "To minimize the possible risks, a clear system of regulatory enforcement and liability needs to be in place for the development, testing and eventual commercialization of PMPs, just as we require strict regulations for conventional drugs made in brick and mortar facilities," she said. "Until then, no permits for new field trials or for commercialization should be issued by USDA because there is no room for trial and error."

In addition to GMA, other organizations signing onto the comments include the American Bakers Association, Biscuit & Cracker Manufacturers Association, Food Marketing Institute, Institute of Shortening & Edible Oils, International Dairy Foods Association, National Confectioners Association, National Council of Chain Restaurants, National Restaurant Association and National Soft Drink Association.