In an editorial published on August 14, 2013 in the scientific journal Nature, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discloses plans for a new guidance on how to fulfill Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) requirements. In relation to two studies by The Pew Charitable Trusts published this month, Nature editor-in-chief Philip Campbell expresses concern that the FDA’s oversight over food additives is contaminated by conflicts of interest and data gaps. Not only may food additive manufacturers determine the safety of their own products using the GRAS process, but also there are quality concerns even if manufacturers do submit GRAS determination to the agency. It is suggested that the FDA act to protect public health and boost confidence by consumers.

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