From: Lori Deutsch [deutsch@flash.net]
Sent: Saturday, June 09, 2001 12:31 AM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Labeling

Re: Docket # 01N-0135, Agency Emergency Processing Under OMB Review;
Focus Group Study of Radiation Disclosure Statement Options For Foods
Treated With Ionizing Radiation.
Attn: Desk Officer for FDA

To whom it may concern:

In the public comment period in 1999 about labeling, the FDA received
over 20,000 comments opposing any changes in the current labeling
requirements for foods that have been irradiated, versus a handful - at
most two hundred comments - favoring weakened labeling. In a transparent
attempt to subvert the clear public support for current labeling, the
FDA now says that there is no public "consensus" on labeling
requirements, and focus groups are needed to understand public opinion.
I urge you to deny the FDA's request to expedite the collection of
information from focus groups on the radiation disclosure statement.

I also oppose weakening the labeling requirements or changing the
allowed terminology. Labels should be clear and conspicuous, not hidden
and misleading. Any changes to the currently permitted phrases, "treated
with radiation" or "treated by [or with] irradiation", would be
deceptive. The current labeling language - where it even appears - does
not provide consumers with adequate information about the irradiation
status of their purchases.

I request that you deny the FDA's request for emergency processing of
the focus-group proposal, and oppose any further weakening of labeling
requirements.

Sincerely,
Lori Deutsch, Nutritionist
4048 Lyceum Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90066