Oh FDA, How Pathetic You Are

MushBrain — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 19:55:35 +0000

The FDA is again attempting to rectify some of its past ineptitude. This time Triclosan – a ubiquitous antibacterial chemical suspected of encouraging development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and inhibiting the human endocrine system – is getting a fresh look. (Thank you, Rep. Edward Markey of Massachusetts!)

The following paragraph from a Washington Post article on the FDA’s latest moves concerning triclosan reveals exactly what is wrong with the way our federal agencies regulate our food and consumer products:

Because it is found in so many different types of products, triclosan is regulated by three different federal agencies: the FDA, the EPA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. But the FDA, which oversees its use in personal-care products, medical devices and products that come into contact with food, has been working for 38 years to establish the rules for the use of triclosan but has not completed that task.

Thirty-eight years!! Who else gets to work on a project for 38 years and then say, “Sorry, boss, I just didn’t have enough time to finish this up.” Geez. Way to fail, guys.

FDA Gives an Inch (But Only an Inch)

MushBrain — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:06:08 +0000

The FDA finally defied its chemical industry sugar daddies and acknowledged that BPA (bisphenol A), a chemical used in making plastic food containers, poses health risks even at levels lower than it had previously considered safe. That’s the good news. The bad news is that the 100+ studies demonstrating BPA’s negative health impacts is apparently not enough evidence for the FDA to take significant action. Manufacturers will not be required to eliminate BPA or even label products made with BPA.

You gotta love our impotent regulatory agencies.

MushBrain » regulation

Oh FDA, How Pathetic You Are

FDA Gives an Inch (But Only an Inch)