Action Plan to reduce toxic elements in baby and toddler foods announced by FDA

The FDA announced a new action plan, called “Closer to Zero,” to reduce exposure to toxic elements in foods commonly eaten by babies and young children to the lowest possible levels. The FDA’s goal is to reduce the levels of arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury in these foods to the greatest extent possible. The plan outlines a multi-phase, science-based, iterative approach to achieving our goal of getting levels of toxic elements in foods closer to zero over time.  Our action plan will occur in three phases. In the first phase, FDA immediately start setting action levels by (I) Evaluating the scientific basis for action levels; (II) Propose action levels; (III)  Consult with stakeholders on proposed action levels; and (IV) Finalize action levels. The next step is to establish a timeframe for assessing the industry’s progress toward meeting the action levels and recommence. The action plan will start with arsenic and lead, proposing action levels. Through this plan, we’ll also take measures to ensure that limiting exposure to toxic elements in foods does not have unintended consequences—like limiting access to foods that have significant nutritional benefits. The goal is to push the levels of toxic elements in these foods closer and closer to zero over time. @ https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-releases-action-plan-reducing-exposure-toxic-elements-foods-babies-young-children?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery