“Generally Recognized as Secret: Chemicals Added to Food in the United States”

1. “Generally Recognized as Secret: Chemicals Added to Food in the United States” Jordy Berger

2. Are GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) products actually SAFE? • According to the NRDC, GRAS allows companies to simply declare as safe hundreds of chemicals added to foods—without notifying the FDA or the public.

3. Theory of how this “loophole” developed… “NRDC charged these problems are rooted in a 1958 law that included an exemption designed for common ingredients such as vinegar and vegetable oil. The exemption avoided an extended FDA approval process because there was a consensus in the scientific community that a chemical’s use was generally recognized as safe to consume. In the ensuing years, however, companies have heavily used this GRAS exemption to self-approve hundreds, if not thousands, of ingredients added to food, according to the NRDC report.”

4. Example in Meat Systems • Sweet lupin protein, fiber, and flour: A company determined as safe for use in baked goods, dairy products, gelatin, meats, and candy, despite FDA-raised questions about whether or not the chemicals would cause serious allergic reactions in those with peanut allergies.

5. Future Implications…

6. References • http://www.fda.gov/food/ingredientspackaginglabeling/gras/default.htm • http://www.meatingplace.com/Industry/News/Details/49351