FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GMA Releases Science Policy Paper on Food Irradiation
Contact:
Scott Openshaw, Director, Communications, 202-295-3957
Brian Kennedy, Director, Communications, 202-639-5994
February 19, 2009
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) today released Food Irradiation: A Guide for Consumers, Policymakers and the Media, a science policy paper that provides policymakers, consumers, journalists and health professionals with current and scientifically accurate information and resources on food irradiation.
“Irradiation can be a safe and effective tool in helping to control foodborne pathogens and can be incorporated as part of a comprehensive program to enhance food safety. There is overwhelming scientific evidence supporting the safety of food irradiation, said Robert Brackett, chief science officer for GMA. “The FDA, the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Medical Association all agree that more than 50 years of research demonstrate that, at approved doses, food irradiation presents no health risk.”
“Food irradiation is just one more tool that industry will have at its disposal to provide consumers with safe food products; however, the adoption of this technology cannot in any way serve as a substitute for industry adherence to good manufacturer, agricultural and sanitary practices that are so essential to maintaining a safe food supply, continued Brackett.”
To access Food Irradiation: A Guide for Consumers, Policymakers and the Media, go to www.gmaonline.org/publications/sciencepolicyseries.cfm.
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Based in Washington, D.C., the Grocery Manufacturers Association is the voice of more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies that sustain and enhance the quality of life for hundreds of millions of people in the United States and around the globe. Founded in 1908, GMA is an active, vocal advocate for its member companies and a trusted source of information about the industry and the products consumers rely on and enjoy every day. The association and its member companies are committed to meeting the needs of consumers through product innovation, responsible business practices and effective public policy solutions developed through a genuine partnership with policymakers and other stakeholders. In keeping with its founding principles, GMA helps its members produce safe products through a strong and ongoing commitment to scientific research, testing and evaluation and to providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to achieve a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. The food, beverage and consumer packaged goods industry in the United States generates sales of $2.1 trillion annually, employs 14 million workers and contributes $1 trillion in added value to the economy every year.
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