From: Pradella, Josephine J [PradeJ@mail01.dnr.state.wi.us]
Sent: Monday, February 05, 2001 12:22 PM
To: 'fdadockets@oc.fda.gov'
Cc: 'action201@sustainableagriculture.net'
Subject: Docket Numbers 00n-1396 and 00D-1598

This is an electronic version of a hard copy of comments I've put in the
mail.

FDA Commissioner, Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305)
Food and Drug Administration
5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061
Rockville, MD 20852

February 5, 2001


	RE: Docket Numbers 00N-1396 and 00D-1598


Dear Commissioner,

The new FDA rule on genetically engineered (GE) foods does not offer enough
protection. I strongly urge the FDA to :

1. Require mandatory pre-market safety testing. GE foods could be toxic,
cause allergic responses, have lower nutritional value, and compromise
immune responses in consumers;

2. Require mandatory pre-market environmental review. GE crops and goods
could cause unforseen and irreparable damage to the environment;

3. Require mandatory labeling of GE foods. Without mandatory labeling,
neither consumers nor health professionals will know if an allergic or toxic
reaction was the result of a GE food. Consumers will also be deprived of the
critical knowledge they need to hold food producers liable should any of
these novel foods prove hazardous;

FDA's "Notification" policy is not in the best interest of consumers since
it ignores strong scientific evidence of numerous potential health and
environmental risks of GE foods. A more proactive rule is needed to protect
public health and the environment and provide more consumer information.

Sincerely,


Josie Pradella
Wisconsin Sustainable Futures Network
4803 Buckeye Rd. #2
Madison, WI 53716-2219