More than three dozen state Farm Bureau organizations and other agricultural
groups are asking the Food and Drug Administration why they are not enforcing
labeling limitations when it comes to dairy products. In a letter coordinated
by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau to FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, the ag groups
expressed displeasure that the agency has not cracked down on food companies
that use the term 'milk' in their products when they do not originate from
dairy animals.
"We organized this letter because our members are frustrated with the status
quo of zero enforcement by FDA," said WFBF President Jim Holte.
The memo listed numerous points as to why the so-called mislabeling is a
disservice to consumers, such as risks for those who suffer from food allergies
and confusion among consumers who think they are getting products that contain
real dairy ingredients.
"Failure of the FDA to administer current regulations runs counter to the
stated goal of the White House to enforce regulations and bring accountability
to those who violate the rule of law," Holte said. "FDA is legally
required to uphold the law."
Meanwhile, Holte and other Farm Bureau leaders from Mississippi, Tennessee and
Utah met with Gottlieb and senior agency staff to discuss the letter. They say
the commissioner was understanding and that the conversation about the proper
procedure will continue to move forward.