From: Diane V. McLoughlin [dianevmc@attcanada.ca]
Sent: Sunday, March 25, 2001 6:06 AM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket 00N-1396 & Docket 00D-1598

Re: Invitation to comment on rules regarding genetically modified foods;

From: Diane McLoughlin, U.S. Citizen
      141 Shady Lane
      Box 86, RR#3
      Woodlawn, ON
      K0A 3M0
      CANADA
      (613) 832-7889

I am writing in good faith to share my views regarding
genetically modified foods.

Genetically modified foods are not substantially equivalent
to conventional foods. They may differ compositionally and
nutritionally. More importantly, they may harbour unexpected
and unknown toxins, carcinogens and allergens that could
harm public health.

Therefore, I submit that all genetically modified foods
should mandatorily undergo pre-market testing for 
environmental soundness;

I submit that all genetically modified foods should
mandatorily undergo pre-market human health testing;

I submit that all genetically modified foods should
mandatorily bear labels; recognizing that in a democracy
the consumer should have the right to choose what they
will or will not wish to consume;

I submit that proper levels of government funding of 
land grant colleges should be restored, such that 
university research will be focused on benefiting the
farmer with public knowledge; with the development of open
seed lines and other information made freely available
to farmers;

I submit that there should be mandatory conflict-of-interest
rules stipulating that former employees of the industry
may not be employed in any position within the U.S. government
that would provide them with the means to affect decisions
regarding GM foods. 

Most sincerely yours,

Diane McLoughlin