SILVER SPRING, MD (Newsource) — The Food and Drug Administration is in need of a major overhaul when it comes to food safety in the United States.
That’s according to a report by an independent group of experts who were commissioned by the agency’s leader.
After heavy criticism for their handling of the baby formula shortage, the FDA’s commissioner asked for a thorough review of the agency.
Experts say the U.S. food supply is generally recognized as safe. But they say the FDA needs to be much more proactive in dealing with foodborne pathogens in order to protect Americans.
Suggesting the agency create a separate center for nutrition within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
They also recommend the agency develop a strategy to increase funding for the human foods program.
In a statement, the FDA Commissioner says the report provides “significant observations” and options to consider.
According to the CDC, about 48-million Americans get some kind of foodborne illness every year. Of those, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die.
The FDA oversees the safety of 78-percent of the U.S. human food supply.
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