Introduction

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, is taking significant steps to reform food safety regulations in the United States by calling for the elimination of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) GRAS program, which stands for “Generally Recognized as Safe.”

The GRAS Controversy

In a recent statement, Kennedy highlighted that the GRAS program has become a loophole exploited by ingredient manufacturers, allowing potentially unsafe food substances to enter the American food supply without adequate oversight or public knowledge. He stated, For far too long, ingredient manufacturers and sponsors have exploited a loophole that has allowed new ingredients and chemicals, often with unknown safety data, to be introduced into the U.S. food supply without notification to the FDA or the public.

Implications of Removing GRAS

If the GRAS designation is eliminated, food manufacturers would be required to notify the FDA when introducing new food ingredients, along with providing necessary safety data. Currently, while the FDA encourages suppliers to submit such notifications under the GRAS rule, companies can self-affirm the safety of an ingredient without notifying the agency.

This proposed change aims to enhance transparency for consumers and restore safety in the food supply. Kennedy believes that: Eliminating this loophole will provide transparency to consumers, help get our nation’s food supply back on track by ensuring that ingredients being introduced into foods are safe and ultimately Make America Healthy Again.

The Background of GRAS

The GRAS standard was established in 1958 as part of the Food Additives Amendment to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Initially intended for commonly used food ingredients deemed safe, it became voluntary in 1997. This change allowed companies to declare an ingredient as GRAS without providing safety validation to the FDA.

Opponents of the current GRAS system argue that it has led to the introduction of untested, potentially harmful substances in food products, raising significant public health concerns.

FDA’s Stance

Acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring food safety. Following Kennedy’s directive, she stated that FDA officials would conduct thorough reviews of all ingredients and substances interacting with food, aiming to create a safer food environment for all consumers.