From: Eddie Caplan [caplan@kdsi.net]
Sent: Monday, March 26, 2001 9:29 AM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket 00N-1396 & Docket 00D-1598

To whom it may concern:

Please invoke stricter rules on Genetically Engineered foods.  I have 
always looked to the FDA to be the leader in consumer education, 
information, and protection for the consumable items that enter the 
market place.  With such large unanswered questions about the safety 
of GE foods and drugs, coupled with un-recallable impact of GEs once 
released into the population and environment FOREVER, it is only WISE 
AND PRUDENT for all GEs to be:

* Clearly labelled in the market, so consumers such as myself can 
avoid GEs if we choose.  Voluntary labelling only allows the most 
cynical and abusive marketers of GEs to avoid any responsibility.

* Undergo pre-market safety testing.  Again, the effects of GEs are 
FOREVER, therefore LONG-TERM safety testing is required to BE SURE 
that this new technology is appropriate.

* Undergo pre-market environmental review

* Be subject to open public access for independent review

For the FDA to continue its leadership in consumer prototection, I 
further ask that the FDA change its policies to prevent people who 
have worked for biotech companies to then work for the FDA writing 
the regulatory rules on that company's product, and then return to 
the self-same company!  I suggest a MANDATORY waiting period of 5 
years between industry and government positions that have direct or 
indirect influence over particular products.

Thank you for your time, wisdom, and prudence,
Edward G. Caplan