Is the heyday for false and misleading organic marketing finally coming to an end?
Maybe.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb took to Twitter this week to announce he’s ready to move on clarifying food packaging and labeling terms, particularly as it relates to organic. He also delineated the roles between the FDA and the USDA in regulating the organic program.
ORGANIC FACTS: In coming weeks I’m going to put out more detailed information on what different terms mean on food packaging, to help consumers best use claims like organic, antibiotic free, etc. Since these issues are in the news today, I wanted to offer a few initial thoughts:
— Scott Gottlieb, M.D. (@SGottliebFDA) August 7, 2018
On the same day Dr. Gottlieb tweeted, my editorial appeared in the Detroit News explaining that the chaotic world of labels is causing confusion among consumers. “Since these issues are in the news today…” Coincidence? I think not!
Okay, maybe. In fairness, these opinions are becoming more mainstream. Remember Stonyfield‘s PR debacle? Henry I. Miller also had an article with similar themes appear in the Wall Street Journal last week. The chorus of individuals complaining about food labeling is getting louder.
Dr. Gottlieb seems particularly attuned to the widespread abuse of product labeling. Last month, he announced that the FDA will review the use of the word “milk” on plant-based dairy alternatives, such as almond and soy products. The announcement was somewhat of a shock because the dairy industry has been complaining about this for quite some time to no avail. But it signals that Dr. Gottlieb understands FDA has been a bit derelict in its duties.
#FDA is focused on empowering consumers with tools and information to make good food choices consistent with public health recommendations, and encourage development of healthier foods by industry. This also means making sure terms on labels are actionable https://t.co/ueLbo3ZtQE
— Scott Gottlieb, M.D. (@SGottliebFDA) August 7, 2018
It is well past time for FDA and USDA to step up and do something about the situation. I wish they had made a move sooner. Too many people already think that organic food is healthier, better for the environment, and produced without the use of pesticides. Too many people are afraid of bioengineered crops. Too many people are confused about food labels and what may or may not be safe.
But it still needs to be done.
As I’ve argued before, such a move helps maintain the integrity of our regulatory scheme and restores confidence in our food supply. We want people to know that when the FDA says something is safe, they can count on the assessment.
It also puts a stop the unfair and misleading claims that organic marketers use. I’ve written about so many of them over the years, but it still upsets me when I see it. “No toxic pesticides!” is not only a marketing gimmick in support of a certain brand, but also a means of denigrating your competitors in the most unfair way.
I’m hoping Dr. Gottlieb comes out swinging on this issue.
