Posted December
16, 2004: On November 26, 2004, the United
States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) published
initial exploratory data looking at the presence of
the chemical perchlorate in some of our nation's food
and water supply. The FDA reported finding perchlorate
in 217 of 232 samples of milk and lettuce in 15 states.
In the testing, both conventional and organic samples
of lettuce and milk were found to contain perchlorate.
"Perchlorate contamination appears to be a problem
across all agriculture, whether conventional or organic
methods are employed," said Katherine DiMatteo,
executive director of The Organic Trade Association
(OTA). "While perchlorate was detected in organic
lettuce and milk, there is no reason to believe that
this is exclusively an organic concern."
In recent years there has been concern about perchlorate
contamination in soil, ground water, drinking water
and irrigation water in areas throughout the country.
As a result, the FDA is evaluating the contamination
levels and potential health risks associated with consuming
foods contaminated with perchlorate. Currently reviewing
several important questions to determine if perchlorate
is a public health concern, the National Academy of
Sciences (NAS), is expected to release a report of its
findings in January 2005.
Until there is more known about the health effects
of perchlorate and its presence in foods, the FDA continues
to recommend that consumers eat a balanced diet by choosing
a variety of foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables.
The FDA does not recommend that consumers alter their
eating habits at this time.
|
