FDA may allow some toxic chemicals to be added to food without safety review. Experts are alarmed
Summary
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to expand an exemption that would let some toxic chemicals be added directly to food without safety checks. This change could allow chemicals linked to health problems, even at very low levels, to be used as ingredients in processed foods.Key Facts
- The FDA wants to expand the "threshold of regulation" (TOR) exemption, which currently applies only to chemicals in food packaging at very low levels.
- The new proposal would allow toxic chemicals to be added directly into food as flavorings, preservatives, enzymes, and other ingredients.
- Some chemicals allowed under this rule, like perchlorate, have been linked to brain damage and other health harms, particularly in children.
- The FDA's TOR rule exempts chemicals from safety reviews if they pose "no appreciable risk," but this term is criticized as too vague.
- Many chemicals that are not cancer-causing but can harm the brain, hormones, immune system, or gut bacteria might be added under this exemption.
- Public health experts warn that small amounts of several toxic chemicals together could cause health problems.
- Consumer labels will not show if these exempted chemicals are present in food products.
- The proposal comes shortly after the FDA and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a separate rule aiming to close a different chemical loophole known as “generally regarded as safe” (GRAS).
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