FDA to assess ‘risk communication’
By Gina Spadafori
June 4, 2007
Here’s a suggestion: How about actually communicating, instead of hiding behind reassurances? And how about teling the public what you know instead of protecting companies you know are going to recall products? Anyway, here’s the release:
FDA Announces New Advisory Committee to Address Risk Communication
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced a new advisory committee designed to counsel the agency on how to strengthen the communication of risks and benefits of FDA-regulated products to the public.
The Risk Communication Advisory Committee will;
help FDA better understand the communication needs and priorities of the general public;
advise FDA on the development of strategic plans to communicate product risks and benefits; and
make recommendations to FDA on what current research suggests about crafting risk and benefit messages, as well as how to most effectively communicate specific product information to vulnerable audiences.“Communicating the risks and benefits associated with FDA-regulated products is essential to help consumers and health care professionals make informed decisions,” said Randall Lutter, Ph.D., FDA’s acting deputy commissioner for policy. “The Risk Communication Advisory Committee will bring together a broad range of experts and views to help improve FDA’s communication of the science-based information about product risks and benefits that the public needs to make informed decisions.”
Establishment of the new Risk Communication Advisory Committee stems from the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) 2006 report, The Future of Drug Safety: Promoting and Protecting the Health of the Public. The report recommended that Congress enact legislation establishing a new advisory committee to address how FDA communicates information about the efficacy, safety and use of drugs and other FDA-regulated medical products. FDA agreed with the value of such a committee and acted promptly to establish it through more speedy administrative procedures. FDA also expanded the scope of the committee to cover communication of risks and benefits of all products regulated by the agency.
The advisory committee will be made up of 15 voting members that include experts and public members who are not affiliated with the FDA. Experts will include authorities knowledgeable in the fields of risk communication, social marketing, health literacy, cultural competency, journalism, bioethics, and other relevant behavioral and social sciences. Public members will include those who can provide the perspective of users of FDA-regulated products, such as consumers, patients, caregivers and health professionals.
Two related Federal Register notices are being published, one announcing the establishment of the new advisory committee and the other requesting nominations for members to serve on the committee. For information: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/oc/ohrms/advdisplay.cfm.
Nominations for advisory committee members received on or before 45 days after the Federal Register publication will be given first consideration for membership.
For more information:
An overview of FDA advisory committees
www.fda.gov/oc/advisory/default.htmFDA’s full response to the IOM report
www.fda.gov/oc/reports/iom013007.html
This just up as top headline on World net Daily.
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/n.....E_ID=56004
Comment by Elaine — June 4, 2007 @ 8:55 am
Sooo—-I would wonder if the advisory committee is formed to do the same as the food czar? Spin, Spin, Spin.
Our govt at work, form committees and talk about it, but DO NOTHING! And by all means, protect big multinational food conglomerates.
Comment by Elaine — June 4, 2007 @ 8:58 am
…”make recommendations to FDA on what current research suggests about crafting risk and benefit messages, as well as how to most effectively communicate specific product information to vulnerable audiences.”
CRAFTING. Is that like SPINNING? I think the FDA has “crafted” their press releases quite eloquently by communicating their preference of big business over consumer health, by withholding information, by placating with “dilutions” of the truth, by ignoring scientific evidence, contradicting itself often within the same day or week, etc. There isn’t a problem communicating. The FDA communicates quite well where the priority is. The problem is their job performance and no committee is going to fix that.
Comment by Cheryl Hansen — June 4, 2007 @ 9:02 am
Oh great. They’re going to get their own group of pet Spin Doctors.
Yup. That’ll help US a lot! You betcha!
Comment by The OTHER Pat — June 4, 2007 @ 9:12 am
Gina and Christie,
If this risk communication committee hasn’t been finalized yet, I would hope that one of you would apply. You could surely mention the increase in the tremendous numbers of people who visited pet food related sites since the recalls were first announced.
Comment by Maureen — June 4, 2007 @ 9:12 am
Blah, blah, blah. We already have more than enough talking going on. How about someone in power actually DOING something about this mess?
Comment by Sandy — June 4, 2007 @ 9:27 am
3 good articles concerning food safety.
http://www.ellinghuysen.com:80.....2000.shtml
Comment by Elaine — June 4, 2007 @ 9:41 am
So much spinning, it’s like the exorcist! Why in the world is our government even giving China the opportuntiy to export this fish into the US? I can not fathom what they are actually thinking. When is it going to stop!!!
Comment by DMS — June 4, 2007 @ 9:51 am
How bout rather then spinning and jacking around the American public the FDA just starts cracking down.
AS IN IMMEDIATELY
Comment by Steve — June 4, 2007 @ 10:04 am
??? *I didn’t think they had any money* ???
I’d RATHER see MORE INSPECTORS than a bunch of spin doctors!!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:06 am
I wonder how many positions will be filled by public members?
Comment by Donna — June 4, 2007 @ 10:12 am
Elaine- That’s a great article — sickening.
There are several states now that have banned fish from China.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:13 am
Gina, this one has your name all over it: “Experts will include authorities knowledgeable in the fields of risk communication, social marketing, health literacy, cultural competency, journalism, bioethics, and other relevant behavioral and social sciences. Public members will include those who can provide the perspective of users of FDA-regulated products, such as consumers, patients, caregivers and health professionals.”
So, how do we get you on the committee????
Comment by Nabiya — June 4, 2007 @ 10:20 am
wow
more watch dogs, watching the watchdogs?
A pack of wolves in sheep’s clothing?
A loyal sheepdog protecting the flock?
A mob of yelping chihuahuas?
A skiperkee clearing the decks of rats?
A band of beagals baying hot on a foxes trail?
A Basenji leaping high to see over the tall grass?
Wandering minds what to know who would make up these 15 members of the Advisory Committee?
Comment by Maudigan — June 4, 2007 @ 10:23 am
The May ORA/OASIS report is out !! yippeee!
Guess what I found??
BINZHOU FUTIAN BIOLOGY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD., CHINA
SHANDONG CN-NOTA, CN 251900 SEA-DO 336-7635775-2/1/1
70YY-99 RICE PROTEIN CONCENTRATE PACKED IN BAGS
31-MAY-2007
——————-
!! WHO IS ORDERING THIS?? THIS IS ONE OF THE COMPANIES THAT HAS THE IMPORT ALERT !!!
——————-
PLUS MORE FILTHY FISH, ETC SAME CRAP, DIFFERENT MONTH!
http://www.fda.gov/ora/oasis/5/ora_oasis_c_cn.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:29 am
FDA has to stop jacking around the American people with delay excuses and crack down. Thats the bottom line.
All they are doing is making excuses for their failure to do what they are supposed to be doing.
Comment by Steve — June 4, 2007 @ 10:31 am
The FDA has done a wonderful job of lying to the public already, they did not do anything much helpful but they have the lying part down pat!
The FDA already has *somebody* teaching them how to dodge giving actual answers, as witness the news briefings that never gave out news.
Maybe this advisory group could teach the FDA how to count, that would be useful.
I fear for Gina and Christie, and their skulls if they get any closer contact(gag) with the FDA but if they are willing I will purchase the super glue.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 10:32 am
*Import Refusals May 2007*
China - 165
Domincan Republic - 226
India - 153
Mexico - 162
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:32 am
PLUS MORE FILTHY FISH, ETC SAME CRAP, DIFFERENT MONTH!
http://www.fda.gov/ora/oasis/5/ora_oasis_c_cn.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:29 am
**************************
And just think, we’re only catching 1 - 2% of the filthy, toxic, mislabeled garbage. Reading the list makes a person want to fast for life!
Comment by petlover — June 4, 2007 @ 10:50 am
Thanks Kat for the numbers. Is the 21 of 31 days where inspections happened correct? I am unsure that’s how to read the report, newbie to it.
Comment by Maudigan — June 4, 2007 @ 10:50 am
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 10:32 am
Media school is obviously a requirement.
I’ve been to media school E. The company I used to work for actually brought them to us.
The biggest emphasis is how to deny without appearing to be denying, how to not answer sensitive questions asked of you that could put you or the company on the spot or get you in trouble, and how to spin out of these questions.
“How to handle aggressive media”. That was one of the workshops.
Comment by Steve — June 4, 2007 @ 10:51 am
Sorry this is totally off topic…
If anyone has experience with FIP and the vaccine for it please go over to Itchmo forums to this thread: http://itchmoforums.com/index.php?topic=759.0
Please post over there and tell me whatever you may know about it.
Thanks.
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 4, 2007 @ 10:52 am
Peggy, there is a list at yahoo groups that does nothing but FIP. It’s a great list.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 11:15 am
On the diethylene glycol contaminated cold medicine, I noticed that they are doing the same thing with numbers.
If I remember right, I think the original report was that 268 people died in Panama last year, not the various media reports “over 50” or “over 100”.
It also seems as if the original story said thousands of poisonings, some in Africa, Panama, maybe some in S. America.
If they can keep reporting lesser numbers all the time, maybe they can lull us back into complacency, they think.
Comment by Elaine — June 4, 2007 @ 11:23 am
Quote from above:The Risk Communication Advisory Committee will;
help FDA better understand the communication needs and priorities of the general public
Sigh.
How about simply listening? How about truthfully answering the questions?
I feel the next spin-alert already coming.
Actually, I would prefer to have the FDA totally disbanded, along with the USDA.
Instead, randomly picked independent laboratories should be responsible (and liable) for the testing of random probes.
Companies who import should provide paperwork as well as test results (paid for by that company, of course). Should the random test by independent laboratory read different results, another test by different laboratory/university. Still not compliant, offending company will be fined that their eyes water.
Oversight of random testing, choosing laboratories etc is a panel of Consumer watchdogs, scientists, farmers, doctors (human and vets) and perhaps couple of observers from media and concerned citizens. Results to be published each quarter. Absolute recall authority, with costs of recall to be paid by company in question, plus a hefty fine (which partially is supposed to pay for the panel and the tests).
I’ll bet you, importing crap from (wherever) suddenly wouldn’t be the cheapest solution anymore…
Comment by MaKo — June 4, 2007 @ 11:29 am
TY, I’ll check them out. I just talked to the Teaching Vet Hospital that they have here at OSU. There is some slight chance the older, previously exposed, cats’ virus could get activated by way of her shedding virus in her urine. Thanks Trudy. She’s outside in their play-cage, there cutting trees in the neighborhood today and making lots of noise; she HATES it. :..(
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 4, 2007 @ 11:29 am
Susan posted the following at itchmo. This was on the FDA list of refused imports:
Changzhou Jiangnan Ornamental Cloth Mill
Chang Zhou , CN 213023 LOS-DO W69-4053649-4/1/1
65JCS31 PROGESTERONE USP28
31-MAY-2007 UNAPPROVED
Remember the textile company that shipped either wheat gluten or RCP to ChemNutra? And the claim was that it went through because it was marked as a non-food item. This is progesterone, for crying out loud!
Comment by Maureen — June 4, 2007 @ 11:31 am
Peggy, I sent you a reply on the FIP thing. Let Me know you received it. thanks,
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 11:35 am
One of them looked like what they use for anistesia on animals?? good lord, I hope not. And thanks for posting that Peggy
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 11:37 am
Comment by Maureen — June 4, 2007 @ 11:31 am
Susan found this one too. The guys that were “detained” supposedly by Chinese Authorities.
This one is in the May refusals. Somebody is still doing business with this company. Who ordered it?
BINZHOU FUTIAN BIOLOGY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD., CHINA
SHANDONG CN-NOTA, CN 251900 SEA-DO 336-7635775-2/1/1
70YY-99 RICE PROTEIN CONCENTRATE PACKED IN BAGS
31-MAY-2007 POISONOUS
Comment by Steve — June 4, 2007 @ 11:38 am
I am just so Freaking Angry. I took some herbs bought at Wal-Mart. I thought We made them, but We didn’t and I ended up in ICU for 3 days. No wonder. And My daughter had Her baby at 5 months. she had a craving for cat fish when She was pregnant. I could just blow-up!
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 11:43 am
There was an excellent article in the Atlanta Journal on Sunday titled “America’s food gets offshored.” Can’t find it online but the author states that “no major domestic vitamin or sorbic acid manufacturers remain in the US. Most artificial colors and flavors come from abroad as well.” He goes on to state that our chemical industry is partnering with Chinese companies or just buying directly from them. Of course, he is all for more regulation and that we will have to pay more for safe food.
I have no problem paying more for safe food. However, I would rather buy American products and give Americans jobs - since we’re going to be paying more anyway. It seems to have come full circle - the consumer will pay more for safe food - yet the corporations will still pocket the savings as they import from overseas.
The FDA just needs to say what needs to be said in plain English. Our food supply is unsafe, and we can’t fix it right now. We need more $$, more inspectors, and less imports.
Comment by Carol — June 4, 2007 @ 11:43 am
Comment by Steve — June 4, 2007 @ 10:51 am
Maybe they need a class in how to tell the truth?
Seems to be a concept the FDA has trouble with.
My Doctor said last week that 3 months of stress have caused me some health problems, wanted me to take a prescription, then he said the drug was FDA approved and staggered back in shock as I literally *screamed* at him that the lying FDA was the *cause* of a lot of my stress and I refused the prescription.
I can live with the pain easier than I can live with the lies.
In fact, several people I know , who have been following all the FDA lies and cover up of the true pet death toll are also refusing to take drugs their Doctors prescribe just because they cannot trust the FDA either now.
Giving more money and power to the FDA is like handing dynamite and a match to a teenage boy. Not a smart thing to do.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 11:46 am
We need to bring back the US companies and it will also stop child labor. We need the work. Is that so hard for them to understand?
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 11:47 am
Here is an article about about groundwater in Bangladesh and other countries in Asia, including China, and how the highly contaminated groundwater is being used in irrigation of crops and subsequently, contaminating produce, (much of which is finding its way to the US):
http://www.fao.org/ag/magazine/0605sp1.htm
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 11:53 am
It all makes You want to puke!
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 12:08 pm
Unfortunately, the FDA is what we’re stuck with. Its employees need to be obligated to the consumers it should be protecting, not the corporations who exert undue influence on every aspect of government.
Comment by Carol — June 4, 2007 @ 12:11 pm
Just more bureaucratic head spinning bull****. As if we don’t have plenty of federal organizations that just mire the important work that needs to be done. What we need is to combine all the separate organizations into a few where everyone communicates and the best resources are employed to stay on top of this globalization.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 12:13 pm
I cannot believe what is on the import refusal list: breast implants, progesterone, dental needles-I’m even suspicious of the antibacterial hand wipes! Now I am going to have to ask my dentist where he gets his needles. Who would have thought all this came from China or that the manufacturing, farming practices were so bad before all this came to light. In some ways, our pets who suffered may have saved our lives.
Comment by DMS — June 4, 2007 @ 12:14 pm
Trudy, I responded over there.
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 4, 2007 @ 12:16 pm
I agree why not just tell us the American the truth? Are they going to put the horse thiefs in charge of guarding the horse barn? Will they get a donation from a large American company to help with a cover up? As is alleged Nixon did during the Watergate scandal?
Comment by thomas — June 4, 2007 @ 12:23 pm
I am as angry as anyone about the FDA’s miserable response to the whole pet food recall issue. However, refusing to take needed medications your doctor prescribes because your don’t trust the FDA is like “cutting off your nose to spite your face”. Let’s not lose perspective here. Most medications that are FDA approved are safe for the purposes they were developed to be used for. There have been exceptions, but, by and large, many medications have been taken for years without problem as long as they are used appropriately. We can’t throw the baby out with the bath water.
Comment by Mandycat — June 4, 2007 @ 12:23 pm
Why can’t the FDA just give us the facts as they find them instead of assuming we’re all idiots who can’t make our own decisions.
Comment by Cathy — June 4, 2007 @ 12:31 pm
“In some ways, our pets who suffered may have saved our lives.”
DMS, I think you’re right.
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 12:38 pm
Peggy (Big Fat Momma Cat) post of 10:52 am
Peggy, I want to send you a message at itchmo and I logged on but don’t know how to get to the area where I can post my message. Assistance please.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 12:41 pm
Just got a FDA email alert that Ziegler pellitized
shrimp has been recalled due to melamine is product.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 12:43 pm
Busy, busy afternoon. Have a email from Sen. Durbin providing an update of what he has been doing regarding pet food safety, etc.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 12:48 pm
Trudy Jackson I see you posted a reply to Peggy (big fat momma cat) on Itchmo. How did you type in the information.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 12:50 pm
No, we are *not* stuck with the FDA. The politicians who appointed their inept buddies to posts at the FDA might be stuck with what they did, but I am *not* and neither are you.
The poison has been pouring into the country for years and it won’t stop tomorrow, it took my “canary’s” dying slowly in agony and three months of hell for me, so far, to even alert the lying spinning FDA to the problem so what is there to miss if the FDA gets disbanded?
I don’t need to pay people to lie to me.
The FDA has become a cesspool of corruption that makes the filth rejected at the border smell like perfume and it *can* be disbanded.
Just like elected officials who forget who pays for their salary and perks can *lose* elections.
Elections are coming up and more…responsive people can be appointed by the new officials, to new agencies that may do better and can hardly do worse.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 12:52 pm
VJ, find my post and then click on the message icon, on the left side under my name; it will take you to a page to leave me a message. I think that’s how it goes; Itchmo forums won’t come up right now to be able to check it, though. You can email me at mphansen1961 at yahoo dot com, if you’d rather.
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 4, 2007 @ 12:54 pm
VJ, Itchmo is working now, I’ll send you a message then you can respond to that.
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 4, 2007 @ 1:04 pm
Hi,
Does anyone have the web address for the FIP group on Yahoo?
Thanks
Comment by catmom5 — June 4, 2007 @ 1:08 pm
Thanks Peggy I used your email address and sent you a note
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 1:12 pm
I know how much you have suffered over your loss, Elaine, and rightfully so. I was just lucky that my precious creatures did not get sick. However, I don’t think that another agency will solve anything as long as the same mentality prevails. The same “buddies” will populate the new agency too. We’ve seen that with FEMA and the VA. I don’t have much faith in independent facilities either - we’ve seen how poorly self-regulation works - and privatization is not always the panacea it is claimed to be. I still believe that our government has a duty to protect its citizens - that duty has been overlooked for far too long and we are ALL paying the price. We need to hold our government accountable for this mess and make them fix it.
Comment by Carol — June 4, 2007 @ 1:12 pm
RE: Thanks Kat for the numbers. Is the 21 of 31 days where inspections happened correct? I am unsure that’s how to read the report, newbie to it.
Comment by Maudigan — June 4, 2007 @ 10:50 am
———————————————
Maudigan - whatcha mean by the 21 of 31 days?
Here’s the main page for the FDA Rejected Imports
http://www.fda.gov/ora/oasis/ora_oasis_ref.html
That opens to another page. Select Country. That will list the rejected imports for all the countries listed. Then, select which country you want to check up on. Click on the reason for rejection, ie: “filthy” will take you to the explanations of what the reason was.
Also, on the front page, of the link above, has “Violation Code Translations” - that explains “reasons” also.
WARNING: Don’t do this on a FULL STOMACH!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 1:23 pm
VJ, I just went to the right top and clicked on Reply. It seemed to work for Me.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 1:23 pm
Missed a step - when you go to the main page (link above) that takes you to the month/year. Select the month/year you want to look at first.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 1:24 pm
We do supposedly have a right to LIFE, LIBERTY, and the PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS. We are being robbed of our right to LIFE, while only corporations seem to have a right to LIBERTY. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS part seems to be eroding fast.
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 1:29 pm
I’ve been wondering what the reject number would be for China this past month. It has dropped significantly! Wonder WHY!!??!!
It couldn’t be because they are doing such a ~fine~ ~job~ sending healthy, uncontaminated food to us! Doubtful!
What’s up with the FDA?? Did they just not CHECK the products coming into our country by a KNOWN country source dumping filth on our country???
You can see the numbers on this page:
http://www.truthinfoodlabeling.....111#msg111
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 1:32 pm
According to CNN Headline News: Paris Hilton wore a black dress last night…
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 1:33 pm
Dominican Republic - 226 rejects - I think it’s ALL vegetables !!
http://www.fda.gov/ora/oasis/5/ora_oasis_c_do.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 1:42 pm
PESTICIDE!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 1:42 pm
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 12:52 pm
Spot on!
It is *our duty* to remove inept people from office - otherwise we have no right whatsoever to complain…
Comment by Carol — June 4, 2007 @ 1:12 pm
However, I don’t think that another agency will solve anything as long as the same mentality prevails. The same “buddies” will populate the new agency too. We’ve seen that with FEMA and the VA.
It is amazing how much a swift kick in the derriere can enhance the work attitude of agencies - especially if their whole agency is under threat to be dismantled. The political buddy game loses its attraction, too, if the politician in question has to be afraid, very afraid, about his/her job.
This is something we can do and *have to do* - in a way, our life and health depends upon it.
Americans have often been liked to the ‘sleeping lion’ - and when I listen to the people in the streets, offices, functions… this lion is waking up. I have never seen so many Americans so angry, so up-in-arms, so demanding a change. In my guestimate, any politician who does not react to this situation will be blown out of office.
And rightfully so.
Comment by MaKo — June 4, 2007 @ 1:58 pm
not sense the ‘60’s
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 2:00 pm
I agree it is up to us to remove these people from office. They will most likely not change their minds and suddenly work for the people. Why? Because many, many of them (as well as corporate executives) show evidence of AntiSocial Personality Disorder:
1.failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest
2.deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure
3.impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
4.irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
5.reckless disregard for safety of self or others
6.consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain steady work or honor financial obligations
7.lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 2:08 pm
There is no need to try and *change* any politcian
who has been part of the cover up and the lying and the good ole boy favors, vote em OUT.
If my efforts help someone who “gets it” into office you can be very sure that they will be aware from the get go that eyes will be watching and the path will be straight and narrow to another public office term.
You can boycott a$$hole politicians just as easy as you can boycott Proctor and Gamble and people are already doing both!
Big companies are gonna have a hard time buying influence if we are not buying their crap, less money for them means less money for corruption of elected officials and less lying and spin.
Our founding fathers were not sleazy on the take politicians, they faced death to do the right thing, we would all be English subjects if they had taken bribes because bribes were offered. They just had too much honor to take them.
Well, there was Benedict Arnold but he got *hung* for it and I think that little history lesson has a lot to teach us.
Mako, you are entirely correct that the next year or two is going to see some changes made.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 2:26 pm
Kat…. 21 of the 31 days in May, there was no refusals, if I read it right. No refusals posted the 11, 12, 19, 20, 26, 27 and 28 of May. Those aren’t weekends. Seven days off inspections?
I asked you if I had read that right, as you seemed to have mastered this paper trail far better and for longer than I have. To which I have been thankful for your being here, many times over.
Comment by Maudigan — June 4, 2007 @ 2:34 pm
And by the way, to any of the lying FDA or pet food companies who are spying here, because they *are* here, here is a new flash.
I am not a consumer (AKA sheeple to be sheared at will), I am a *citizen*, a voting tax paying *citizen* and until I can say that without being ashamed of what passes for my elected officials again I am going to keep hammering.
And I am not alone.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 2:46 pm
Most people still seem to vote based on where someone is from, what there last name is, or who their grand-daddy was. I wish I knew the magic button to put a stop to that senselessness.
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 2:54 pm
Maudigan! YOU have a great eye!
I was just looking at WHAT had been caught, WHO had been caught, and the REASONS.
I did notice on Domican Republic most of theirs was from the same day. Which means to me one big shipment.
I do not have all the answers. But, I was like a vulture waiting for this last report. ha!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 2:56 pm
Please Read-
I’m going to try all kinds of blogs, so you might see this again.
I know some people on PETCONNECTION and ITCHMO are probably going to write a book about all this horrible mess. and that’s good.
I am writing a book now. But it’s not scientific data and all that. Not any of it.
It’s a book from My heart. How many have lost pets, who were they, what were they, what did they mean to you? What was it like having them in your lives?
How has this affected your whole life, even if you didn’t lose a pet? It still has had to affected You and your way of life?
I am devastated by the loss of My pets and all the danger with pet and people food.
My whole world changed after 9/11, and now it has changed again.
Our sweet pets paid the price an need to be heard. They also might have saved our lives in the process.
You could do a tribute, a story, a poem, etc. about them and you.Or just how this has changed your life.
My life, My trust, My way of thinking and living will never ever be the same again.
We owe it to them and us as a tribute also.
We owe so much to PETCONNECTION and ITCHMO for all the wonderful information. they have My deepest respect.
Please send Me an email with your tribute, story, poem, etc. Or just write Me and I’ll give you My phone and snail mail address.
You can name your tribute, poem, story, etc. Please write down that I can have full permission to use it , and sign your name. Thank you, Trudy Jackson magesticats@net-change.com
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 3:12 pm
Yoko Ono ate dog in protest:
http://tinyurl.com/2hymxo
Comment by Terry — June 4, 2007 @ 3:15 pm
CatMom5 FIP list- FIP@yahoogroups.com
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 3:18 pm
Too funny! This is one way to weed out the bad apples in the FDA and PFI. Just heard this report on CNN and was in yesterday’s Washington Post:
WASHINGTON — Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt offered $1 million Sunday to anyone who could provide proof of an illicit sexual encounter with a high-ranking government official…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/.....t&
I suggest we write letters asking that he offer up the same for proof of any FDA and PFI representative found doing the same! :)
Comment by Barb — June 4, 2007 @ 3:37 pm
Comment by E. Hamilton June 4, 2007 11:46 am
E. laughed when I read you screamed at doctor and he staggered back. Good! for you! Luv ya gal.
I was on BP medicine and one for heart arythmma and quit on my own about 2 yrs ago. Feel better. The more horror stories I hear about medical prof. the more I want nada to do with it. For last 5 yrs have been seeing a wonderful, intelligent, compassionate holistic doc who uses all-natural and I mean all-natural whole food supplements. People travel from all over to see him. He muscle tests and doesn’t need all that expensive crap to diagnose like the others who still get it wrong. Sorry to get off topic but when I read your post just had to comment.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 3:43 pm
Did your Mom want to hear you “craft” a response? How about the teacher - the coach - the girlfriend? I’m an old lady but I REMEMBER that we didn’t craft responses, we told the truth. FDA needs a committee to help them obfuscate about as much as FEMA needs a floral decorator. Oh yes, we didn’t always tell the truth and by gosh, there were consequences. Now the time has come for us to demand consequences (and not the Medal of Freedom) and to vote in every way, the marketplace and the ballot box.
Comment by Nancy Nielsen — June 4, 2007 @ 4:09 pm
Comment by Trudy Jackson June 4, 2007 3:12pm
Trudy what a wonderful heart you have. A book of tributes to pets and pet parents is a great idea. I have not lost my 2 precious dogs from this scandal but would be devastated if it had happened. Also that you have time to follow these blogs, write for the local paper, do this book and all the other daily things in your life boggles my mind. Some days I wonder how I manage to get done what I do. It ain’t easy, girl. One more comment, to Linda if you are reading this cause I haven’t seen your comments today. Contributing to Trudy’s book would be right up your alley. To both of you, go for it. Best of luck.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 4:24 pm
Comment by Mandycat — June 4, 2007 @ 12:23 pm
What I *don’t* need is a drug APPROVED by the very jerks who are causing me the stress in the first place and that is that.
What I *need* is not to be stabbed in the back by the government I AM PAYING TAXES TO.
What I *need* is a government that I am not ashamed of, a government that takes a hard view of those who sold poison labeled as premium pet food to it’s citizens, a government that arrests people who do and a government that responds to *citizens* concerns.
A bunch of the drugs the FDA APPROVES benefit the drug companies and no one else.
I have already outlived a lot of people who thought they could *trust* drugs the FDA said were safe.
I wonder what the dollar value is for all the people who died from heart attacks from Avandia is in bribes , or promises of high paying jobs to FDA officials? And that is just ONE drug.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 4:26 pm
omment by MaKo — June 4, 2007 @ 1:58 pm
“The political buddy game loses its attraction, too, if the politician in question has to be afraid, very afraid, about his/her job.”
It’s not a political buddy change when administrations change. All political appointees serve at the pleasure of the President and all resign when a new President takes office. Very, very few remain, if any, if the new President is of a different party. There is essentially a total turnover. The actions and quality of an agency can change overnight. Most career employees are also fed up with this administration and the political hacks running agencies like the FDA. A new President can make a significant change - but that depends on WHO is elected. There is no time like an administration change to clean up (or destroy if thing are going well) an agency.
The current crop of political appointees know they will likely lose their jobs. That’s why they spend there time doing the beck and call of big business - that is where they hope to get the high 6-figure salaries. Most don’t give a damn about their present job, except as a stepping stone to corporate or consultant wealth – this is also why they don’t give a damn about us.
If a career job holder doesn’t do what the political bosses say, they can lose their jobs. Remember, the White House runs the agencies, the President is the BOSS at federal agencies.
Comment by MFEMFEM — June 4, 2007 @ 4:27 pm
VJ, Thanks so much. that’s IF anyone sends Me anything. But I do thank you.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 4:35 pm
Remember, the White House runs the agencies, the President is the BOSS at federal agencies.
Comment by MFEMFEM — June 4, 2007 @ 4:27 pm
….and the Constitution is the BOSS of the President.
Comment by MaKo — June 4, 2007 @ 4:46 pm
Yes, the constitution is, but you’d never know it.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 4:51 pm
After watching that video earlier today, I think I’m going to side-step our incompetent government & petetion WHO, FAO & Codex Alimentarius. They are the ones who carry the BIG STICKS. Actually, they could be the only ones with sticks!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:05 pm
Kat - I hadn’t looked at the May FDA stats yet. Interesting.
I recall the April had more or less: China 256, India bumping around 160, Mexico slightly less, 140-150, and the next nearest was Canada at 56 (and the more important note, I guess is that we import maybe 4 or 5 times the amount monetarily from Canada than from China, so China numbers are greater on less incoming imports overall. I read that, can’t vouch for it yet).
So when did the Dominican Republic get on the reject list and at such a top ten position? Just coming into their seasons for shipping produce? Chinese shipping their crap to the Domin. Repub, and then it comes in under their name, so China no longer looks as bad temporarily? Maybe I recall the numbers wrong, will check tomorrow. Am tired; well, also old!
Comment by TC — June 4, 2007 @ 5:14 pm
You know, China is hosting the Olympics next year. I wonder what we can do to make connections known.
By the way, China has trillions in CASH surplus. What are they doing spending billions of dollars for a one-time public relations spectacle, rather than using that money to improve their own polluted water, sewage treatment and toxic pollution?
Why are they spending money to purchase American companies (Blackstone Group) rather than upgrade their infrastructure?
Comment by No Longer Asleep at the Wheel — June 4, 2007 @ 5:17 pm
Import Refusals May 2007
China – 165
Domincan Republic – 226
India – 153
Mexico – 162
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:32 am
Yeah but remember this is only .56% (yes that’s point .56%! When they say 1% they are rounding it up from .56) that are being inspected. The rest of the filthy adulterated product from CHINA makes its way in to America unquestioned!
Comment by JAG — June 4, 2007 @ 5:17 pm
Good for you, Trudy! I hope you have LOTS of participants! LOTS of stories to be told.
I’ll buy the first few editions & send to the top at FDA — as a Christmas present or some holiday — just to ruin it for them.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:19 pm
Well, there was Benedict Arnold but he got hung for it and I think that little history lesson has a lot to teach us.
Comment by E. Hamilton
Umm no. He didn’t hang.
http://www.ushistory.org/valle.....rnold.html
“Arnold defected to the British and received substantial remuneration for his defection. These included pay, land in Canada, pensions for himself, his wife and his children (five surviving from Peggy and three from his first marriage to Margaret) and a military commission as a British Provincial brigadier general.
The British provided handsomely for Arnold, but never completely trusted him. He was never given an important military command. They moved to London where he found no job, some admiration and even some contempt. He moved his family to Canada where he reentered the shipping business. The Tories there disliked him and had no use for him, and eventually he returned his family to London. When the fighting began between France and England, he tried again for military service, but to no avail. His shipping ventures eventually failed and he died in 1801, virtually unknown, his wife joining him in death three years later.”
I’m sure there is a lesson there, but I couldn’t say what it is, unless it’s “don’t trust anyone involved in the import/export game.” or maybe it’s this “if your an importer and your customers don’t trust you, you are destined to fail”?
Comment by Schnauzer — June 4, 2007 @ 5:19 pm
JAG — yep! Isn’t that pathetic! ? ! ?
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:22 pm
I cannot believe that the Olympic Committee would think China would be a great place for the Olympics. I would *not* let my kid go there for anything.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:25 pm
Who are the importers that buy this crap? What companies do they sell to? I know, it’s REDACTED. The FDA won’t tell us.
Comment by Robert — June 4, 2007 @ 5:28 pm
TC - Go check out Domincan Republic! It’s just about entirely produce. Most from one big day, the 15th. Big shipments 4th, 10th, 14th, 15th all big days. Almost all look like they came into NY. Nearly all PESTICIDE contamination.
http://www.fda.gov/ora/oasis/5/ora_oasis_c_do.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:30 pm
What *I* want to know — is WHY IS FUTIAN BIOLOGY — with RICE PROTEIN CONTENTRATE on the China list?? WHO IS BUYING THIS CRAP — STILL??
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:32 pm
Dom. Rep. all vegetables are contaminated with pesticides, except one — FILTH.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:34 pm
Got an email from Silk Soymilk today. They buy organic soybeans — internationally. I asked if they buy organic from China. Makes me want to puke and laugh at the same time.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:36 pm
The other day I had to buy a bag of dry food for my dogs. I took a pendulum with me and held it over the bag and questioned if it was safe before I bought it. Still feeding from the previous bag but running low and each and every day I mix the dry food with the veggies and meat I ask myself is this safe. I don’t think another day will ever, ever go by that I won’t ask that question.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 5:36 pm
I heard ‘FDA Approved’ on a commercial a little while ago and laughed out loud - it’s now a totally meaningless phrase to me.
As for medications, there’s a fantastic site that includes side effects reported by other people taking it. When I looked up all my medications on it a few months ago I realized that every single health problem I’ve had in the past few years was a side effect of a medication! I’ve since stopped taking about 10 prescription medicines, and am doing much better off them.
http://www.askapatient.com/rateyourmedicine.htm
You can search by drug name or category - ie antihistamine.
Comment by Kim — June 4, 2007 @ 5:38 pm
While shopping today I saw some pet sympathy cards. Which for some reason lately and this is way before the recall seemed hard to find. I had even asked in several stores why there weren’t any. So today I saw some and picked up a few. This one was not a pet card but definitely could be. The card has a dark blue background with some stars scattered around. It says: “I have this feeling there’s one more star up in the sky tonight. And even though it’s far away, its brightness and warmth still reach us here to make the night a little less dark.” That touched me deeply. So to all the pets who have died, may your stars shine brightly down for your parents and all to see.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 5:45 pm
VJ: I won’t even consider buying a bag or can of any of it until 365 days have passed — at a minimum, since the last pet food recall or last reported pet sick from a non-recalled product.
I don’t know what the pet food companies will do without MY business — rot, maybe??
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:52 pm
What I want to know—is WHY IS FUTIAN BIOLOGY —with RICE PROTEIN CONTENTRATE on the China list?? WHO IS BUYING THIS CRAP —STILL??
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:32 pm
==================
Is there any way to find out who the importer is? Anybody?
Comment by DMS — June 4, 2007 @ 5:52 pm
Kat, thanks and i’ll sign it for you too. haha. Well, no one is writing yet, so we’ll see. VJ, I know this has done things to you, so you have to write to Me. you too Kat,
We should probably boycott the olimpics. the people and animals live in filth and they are having this. What is this country thinking? Someone or more than someone is hiding something. .
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 5:53 pm
Oh, VJ ,now you have Me crying. [cards]
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 5:55 pm
Oh, VJ! That brought tears to my eyes. Everytime one of our pets sniffs the pet food crap & they look in horror, or try to cover it up (as has been reported) - I think it’s one of the Guardian Pet Angels looking down, telling them DON’T TOUCH THAT CRAP!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 5:59 pm
Comment by Schnauzer — June 4, 2007 @ 5:19 pm
AND
Comment by Kim — June 4, 2007 @ 5:38 pm
Ok, I was wrong on Arnold, we can always *start* hanging officials who take bribes. Need some good sized gallows.
And Kim,
When I read this in your post-
I heard ‘FDA Approved’ on a commercial a little while ago and laughed out loud – it’s now a totally meaningless phrase to me.
EXACTLY!!
In fact, it might be worse for them than hanging, to be … meaningless.
And either way suits me fine, I will dance on the day the FDA is disbanded.
Or on Duanes grave, whichever comes first.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 6:00 pm
Trudy, I don’t have much of a story. We were grazed by the melamine bullet & lived to tell about it. Then, it made me cRaZZZy! that’s all.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:01 pm
Thanks Trudy. I know I’ve always had a sensitive soul for animals and anyone who is the underdog. I’ve gotten myself in “trouble” more than once for opening my mouth when I see a wrong being done. Carry my heart on my sleeve. I’ll try to work on something for you.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 6:05 pm
Comment by VJ
thank you for sharing that card about the star up in the sky. That touched me also.
Comment by Cathy B Oregon — June 4, 2007 @ 6:06 pm
*Pelleted and crumbled shrimp feed recalled*
http://economie.moldova.org/stiri/eng/51024/
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced the voluntary nationwide recall of pelleted and crumbled shrimp feeds manufactured by Zeigler Bros. Inc.
The Gardners, Pa., company said customers should immediately stop feeding its pelleted and crumbled shrimp feed products because of possible contamination with the chemical melamine and related compounds.
Zeiger said its AquaBond binding agent used in the shrimp feed is at a much lower concentration than similar melamine ingredients involved in recent U.S. pet food recalls.
Consumers can contact the company at 800-841-6800 or info@zeiglerfeed.com. A list detailing the recalled shrimp feed products is available at http://www.zeiglerfeed.com.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:12 pm
Kat, it made Me Crazy, too. But later write Me anyway. i know you have a lot of built up things going on in your mind. And a good mind it is. you are doing a great job.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:12 pm
Thanks, VJ. I’ll give you time. You’re such a nice person.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:18 pm
BSE related. I’ve been vaguely following this company. It’s been trying to test it’s cows, for BSE, for a couple of years & fighting the USDA all along… now they’ve SUED THE USDA!
http://www.upi.com/Consumer_He.....usda/4216/
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:24 pm
FDA Press Release — Ziegler Voluntary Recall
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr.....06_07.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:26 pm
Thanks! There is so much happening — STILL! Lots to do! Old & new.
We’ll probably see more feed recalled soon.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:28 pm
Thank you Trudy. So are you. You are right about Kat. She has a lot of information and knowledge and puts it to good use. And where is Linda tonight. She should be able to have a lot to say.
Comment by VJ — June 4, 2007 @ 6:30 pm
I just know We will. I dread it.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:32 pm
I’m tired. I meant that to go to Ket saying more recalls. And I dread that.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:35 pm
Good, VJ, anyone you know of who can help. and thanks again,
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:36 pm
Yep. I’m tired. sorry, Kat. What’s wrong with My brain tonight? It’s gone mela-something.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:39 pm
We’re having a thunderstorm. I’ll talk to you all tomorrow.
Comment by Trudy Jackson — June 4, 2007 @ 6:43 pm
WOW! Ziegler has done quite a bit of investigation & reporting on their website. Here’s the news link. June 4th has really indepth look at melamine & all the stuff that’s been happening.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:43 pm
Kat said: BSE related. I’ve been vaguely following this company. It’s been trying to test it’s cows, for BSE, for a couple of years & fighting the USDA all along… now they’ve SUED THE USDA!
http://www.upi.com/Consumer_He…..usda/4216/
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:24 pm
**************************
I saw this, too, and wrote to Creekstone for standing up for themselves and all other ranchers that want to produce natural beef. Creekstone just want to assure the public its meats are BSE-free (Mad Cow Disease) and are having to fight the government to do the testing and label their products as BSE-free! Can you believe the test kits are not available for sale to people IN the beef raising industry? Sounds as if only government-affiliated labs have access to the test kits?? Hmmmmm… I wonder why.
We wouldn’t want to hurt the large beef ranching industry because they’d have to pay for BSE testing, would we??? (Can you believe this???) Are we afraid of what we might find?
What has become of the U.S. government and its concern for food and public safety? This company’s profits are being hurt because they WANT to test their products to prove they are safe! What consumer would argue with that, especially knowing all we know now?
Big business owns the government. Watch out for yourselves & your families!
Comment by petlover — June 4, 2007 @ 6:59 pm
FDA Press Release—Ziegler Voluntary Recall
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr…..06_07.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:26 pm
Kat: Ziegler is a pet food manufacturer. I wonder if they’ll get all the contamined shrimp/feed back or if it’s already in the pet food?
Comment by Nabiya — June 4, 2007 @ 7:05 pm
Kat,
I have emailed Creekstone Farms to show support for them. They are taking a very big step. Good for them, and hopefully, good for us too.
Comment by ango — June 4, 2007 @ 7:14 pm
Comment by petlover — June 4, 2007 @ 6:59 pm
Big business owns the government.
*NO* they do not! Big business may *think* they own the government but they are wrong.
*We* own the government and it is time, past time, to take it back.
We have tenants that trashed the property and it is time to evict them.
As the landlord, we the people have every right, we have a *duty* to clean this up.
New Orleans is being rebuilt , IN SPITE OF FEMA, is it not?
Waiting on FEMA to get off the dime did not get it done, people in New Orleans probably have lots to teach us about waiting for the fed to do something and lots to teach about *trusting* the fed to do the job.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 7:14 pm
petlover,
It is not the big RANCHING industry that doesn’t want to test for BSE, it is the Big 4 multinational packing companies.
They want to import cheap meat from other countries that may or may not have a BSE problem, and sell it with the USDA stamp so you have no way of knowing it isn’t U.S. beef.
That is why they are fighting the BSE testing and COOL.
Comment by Elaine — June 4, 2007 @ 7:20 pm
petlover:
It’s hard to watch out for ourselves when the food manufacturers won’t disclose squat! I just don’t buy from them & I let them know!
One thing that crossed my mind about the test kits — is self-testing — and complete disclosure about that. I think 3rd party testing is better.
I understand that company wants to prove their cattle are safe. In-house testing, on a regular basis is important & a good thing. I just think unbiased testing is better.
As far as the USDA making it illegal — that is bizarre!
I think I remember that letter you posted weeks ago. Or, at least you talking about it.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 7:21 pm
Nabiya: It’s probably already been or being sold. One of those companies said they’d been adding melamine for a couple of years. I don’t remember which one said that or if it’s the one Zeigler got it from. Need to catch up on adding some news articles up about them.
Also, I was wondering about the other pet food they manufacture?? They have a big list - including zoo animals. Beautiful parrot on their website!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 7:29 pm
To E. and Kim -
I understand your outrage at the FDA. I also am no fan of them. I also respect your decision not to take a medication if that is what you think is right for you. However, there are thousands of meds on the market and tens of thousands of people who are being helped by them every day. People not taking their prescribed medication will not affect the FDA one iota, but might do great harm to the individual who needs the medication. There are better ways to protest.
Comment by Mandycat — June 4, 2007 @ 7:46 pm
Comment by Mandycat — June 4, 2007 @ 7:46 pm
I am not *protesting* by refusing to take the drugs- I am flat *scared* to take anything I know is APPROVED by lying inept bought off political flunkies!
Even the food on my plate may kill me, it sure killed my pets.
And it was a slow ugly death too.
If I have to die that way, and the way things are going I might, we all might, then I will do it without giving another dime to those that market poison and lies and those that help them.
I trust this is clear.
Comment by E. Hamilton — June 4, 2007 @ 7:55 pm
So the “newly self-appointed dictator-man” is appointing a new committee to try to brain-wash those pesky bloggers who just will not shut up!
Let’s see now, if that doesn’t work, maybe the “newly self-appointed dictator-man” will just out-law the public use of the internet!
Folks, what you see happening is the beginning of a “One World Government”!!
Comment by Mary Smith — June 4, 2007 @ 8:44 pm
Not a protest here either, and I’m not recommending other people stop taking prescription medication. But I went through 2 years of really tough times because a prescription was approved that shouldn’t have been - then wasn’t recalled in a timely manner.
I don’t even hate the FDA - I hate their current policies and actions. (And a couple of individuals at the top)
All I want is food that is safe to eat, and drugs that are safe to take. And for both to come with warning labels where necessary - so I know exactly what I am putting in my body, and can make an INFORMED decision.
Comment by Kim — June 4, 2007 @ 9:52 pm
(though, E’s “lying inept bought off political flunkies” does seem to describe some of them) You do have a way with words E!
Comment by Kim — June 4, 2007 @ 9:53 pm
Even tho we already know most of this - here’s something to feed the nightmares:
http://www.timesunion.com/ASPS.....nkFrom=RSS
*Chinese vitamin industry lacks oversight*
SHIJIAZHUANG, China — If you pop a vitamin C tablet in your mouth, it’s a good bet it came from China. Indeed, many of the world’s vitamins are now made in China.
In less than a decade, China has captured 90 percent of the U.S. market for vitamin C, driving almost everyone else out of business.
Chinese pharmaceutical companies also have taken over much of the world market in the production of antibiotics, analgesics, enzymes and primary amino acids. According to an industry group, China makes 70 percent of the world’s penicillin, 50 percent of its aspirin and 35 percent of its acetaminophen, as well as the bulk of vitamins A, B12, C and E. …
…But the inspectors aren’t exactly neutral guardians of public health. They work for the city government, which is a part owner of the parent company of Weisheng Pharmaceutical. That kind of relationship between food and drug inspectors and China’s booming agricultural and pharmaceutical industries is coming to the fore as an issue in the food safety debate. The local government in this thriving city of 2 million people would suffer if it did anything to hurt the growth of local vitamin and drug producers, and local officials might be reluctant to admit that a public safety issue had arisen.
Since U.S. laws don’t require food and drug sellers to label products with the country of origin of ingredients, it’s impossible for consumers to know where food or supplements are coming from, not to mention what factory produced them.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:27 pm
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr.....06_07.html
Just came in email update:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Harrisburg, PA — June 1, 2007 — Consumers who have purchased raw milk from Green Acres Jersey Farm in Lebanon any time after May 8 should discard it immediately due to the risk of Listeria monocytogenes contamination, Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff said today. …
… Symptoms of Listeriosis include fever, muscle aches and, sometimes, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or convulsions can occur.
Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness, but infections during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
Symptoms of Listeriosis can appear in four days to three weeks.
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:41 pm
(diethylene glycol also known as DEG - not mentioned below)
*Here’s the FDA’s Toothpate Alert:*
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/.....01646.html
Consumers should examine toothpaste products for labeling that says the product is made in China. Out of an abundance of caution, FDA suggests that consumers throw away toothpaste with that labeling. FDA is concerned that these products may contain “diethylene glycol,” also known as “diglycol” or “diglycol stearate.”
Brands & type stores sold:
FDA has identified the following brands of toothpaste from China that contain DEG and are included in the import alert: *Cooldent Fluoride; Cooldent Spearmint; Cooldent ICE; Dr. Cool, Everfresh Toothpaste; Superdent Toothpaste; Clean Rite Toothpaste; Oralmax Extreme; Oral Bright Fresh Spearmint Flavor; Bright Max Peppermint Flavor; ShiR Fresh Mint Fluoride Paste; DentaPro; DentaKleen; and DentaKleen Junior* . Manufacturers of these products are: Goldcredit International Enterprises Limited; Goldcredit International Trading Company Limited; and Suzhou City Jinmao Daily Chemicals Company Limited. The products typically are sold at low-cost, “bargain” retail outlets.
==================
*Here’s the FDA’s Import Alert #66-74 on toothpaste*
http://www.fda.gov/ora/fiars/o.....a6674.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 10:48 pm
USA Today article about us is posted
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/w.....iece_N.htm
Nice pic of Gina and Clara!
Comment by Kim — June 4, 2007 @ 11:01 pm
HOLY SMOKES! This is on the FIARS Alert, link above.
Diethylene glycol may be also known as:
1. Brecolane ndg
2. Carbitol
3. Deactivator E
4. Deactivator H
5. DEG
6. Degrees
7. Dicol
8. Diethylene ether
9. Diethylene glycol
10. Diethylenglykol (Czech)
11. Digenos
12. Diglycol
13. Digol
14. Dihydroxydiethyl ether
15. 2,2’-Dihydroxydiethyl ether
16. beta,beta’-Dihydroxydiethyl ether
17. Dihydroxyethylether
18. 2,2’-Dihydroxyethyl ether
19. Dissolvant APV
20. Ethanol, 2,2’-oxybis-
21. Ethanol, 2,2’-oxydi-
22. Ethylene diglycol
23. Glycol ether
24. Glycol ethyl ether
25. 2-Hydroxyethyl ether
26. bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)ether
27. 3-Oxapentane-1,5-diol
28. 3-Oxa-1,5-pentanediol
29. 2,2’-Oxybisethanol
30. 2,2’-Oxybis-ethanol
31. 2,2’-Oxydiethanol
32. 2,2’-Oxyethanol
33. TL4N
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 11:04 pm
;)
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 11:09 pm
!! They’re watching !! Grrrrr8 find, Kim!!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 11:12 pm
Ground Beef Being Recalled In San Diego County, Five Western States
Ground beef that was distributed to San Diego County and five western states is being recalled for possible contamination by a particularly dangerous strain of E. coli, county health officials said today.
United Food Group of Vernon, near Los Angeles, recalled 75,000 pounds of the meat because it could contain E. coli O157:H7, a strain that kills about five dozen people annually in the United States, according to the county Department of Environmental Health.
The ground beef and ground sirloin products covered by the recall come in various sizes under the Moran’s All-Natural, Inter-American Products and Stater Bros. Markets brands.
The products are labeled “EST. 1241” inside the USDA inspection mark, are stamped “Sell by May/06/07,” and have a “freeze by” date of May/07/07 or a “produced on” date of April/20/07.
Consumers should not eat the meat, and should check with retailers on return policies, health officials said.
USDA food safety Web site.
Story: http://www.10news.com/news/13440744/detail.html
Comment by Barb — June 4, 2007 @ 11:19 pm
What a terrrrrrific article! Good goin’! Get ready for even MORE visitors! haha!
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 11:24 pm
This page appears to have been taken down from the FDA’s web site —
“FDA Press Release—Ziegler Voluntary Recall
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr…..06_07.html
Comment by Kat — June 4, 2007 @ 6:26 pm”
Comment by Sandy — June 4, 2007 @ 11:31 pm
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr.....06_07.html
Comment by Sandy — June 4, 2007 @ 11:34 pm
It’s there: http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmr.....06_07.html
Comment by Kat — June 5, 2007 @ 12:08 am
I am glad that you Gina and Clara got credit in a really nice way, picture and story; for all the hard work you have done keeping up with everything needed to keep this website working and allowing a place for all of us who lost pets or have sick pets to get together and share news and information. This site has really helped me get thru this time of loss.
Thanks again for the website.
Comment by Cathy B Oregon — June 5, 2007 @ 12:40 am
Has the FDA done a ‘risk
assumption’ on how much of this “highly unlikely” crap we can ‘consume’ before we keel over??
Or perhaps tested the interaction of anti-freeze with the other ‘ingredients’ that we shouldn’t worry about?
Maybe Tylenol® should add a new warning label. It’s prob safer to take with a strong drink these days than a nice catfish dinner.
Ah well, all the kids that don’t like to take their vitamins are def on to something these days . . . They may even be hoping soap lands on the ‘do not use list’ along with toothpaste! ;)
Comment by straybaby — June 5, 2007 @ 7:48 am
Boy I missed a lot in the past 2 days. I have 2 pretty sick cats here at home and the vets have no answers for me.
My head is continuing to explode after reading what I missed, but I figured I’d add to head explosions all around.
There is a great information source, called the Havaria Information Service. It contains a worldwide alert map. I have been checking it out for a few weeks now and today I looked at the Biological Hazards all pertaining to China….and all ongoing. Remember the pigs back in April? Getting worse, getting bigger, denials left and right and sideways. Now there are problems with the ducks and chickens. How do I get this information to the FDA? If they want to allow non edible crap from China, maybe I have less of a problem with that. BUT I SURE HAVE A PROBLEM with food and drugs.
How about those defective latex gloves on the OASIS report? I am an Oral surgical nurse and am not comforted by the fact that my hands go in the filthiest place on the human body and now there are holes in the gloves??
Please tell me how to get this Havaria Info to the inept FDA and all the pet foods idiots, oops I mean industry.
And there was someone asking about FIP? Maybe I can help you. I have personal experience with that……
Comment by PegH — June 5, 2007 @ 9:48 am
PegH - want the direct phone number of your FDA Complaint Coordinator? Let me know what city/state you live in and I’ll send it to you - I have most of them. :-) email me at pft @ playingbig.com
Comment by Kim — June 5, 2007 @ 10:01 am
That was me asking about FIP. I guess it’s just all this nonsense with multiple sources of poisoning and an under-funded, ‘over-worked,’ paid-off, FDA that makes me so totally paranoid that I am not always completely sure who, or how, to trust anymore.
Comment by Peggy (AKA: Big Fat Momma Cat) — June 5, 2007 @ 10:37 am
re comment by Peggy
FIP highly contagious and fatal. My Raisin was dead 10 days after she was diagnosed. There was nothing to do. Necropsy confirmed the cause of death. No real blood test, only a titer test for exposure. Raisin an indoor only kitty, rubbed noses with an indoor/outdoor kitty from 2 houses down and she was dead 10 days later. Indoor/outdoor kitty was a carrier….kind of like Typhoid Mary. At the time Raisin was ill I had 6 others at home. The intranasal vaccine had just come out and I did all 6 cats for 2 years after. Vaccine, they say is pretty much ineffective. Biggest clue is jaundice. Whites of the eyes turn YELLOW. Inside of the ears, yellow. Gum tissue is pale pinkish white. Appetite goes completely 2 days after onset of illness. Abdomen swells horribly. It is one really crappy disease. I do not do the intranasal, I just don’t let anyone out. One good thing is the FIP virus dies pretty quickly once it is shed from a cat’s body. FLEUK stays active for awhile and FIV dies very quickly too. Hope this helps you some.
Comment by PegH — June 5, 2007 @ 7:05 pm
This REALLY pisses me off.
I concur with Steve, this is NOT about communicating better this is about not getting caught. I think I want to help journalists get better information from them.
Here’s something that the FDA could do stop limiting the press conferences to one question no follow ups. It is ridiculous that USA Today only gets one question and if they “run out of time” then people who follow the story don’t have time to ask good questions.
If I and several poster on this board could have asked questioned in the press conference we could have pointed out just how much there were hiding. I wrote the reporters and said, “You need to demand that they have longer press conferences and more than one question per person.”
But what did the FDA do? Cancel all press conferences.
One question per-open up the press conference
Comment by spocko — June 5, 2007 @ 8:18 pm
The FDA is a bunch of lying scumbags appointed by Bush. The only kind of communication they understand is cya. The reason they cancelled the press conferences is it was becoming more and more apparent to the public that they are not just incompetant but dangerous.
Comment by Sharon — June 6, 2007 @ 6:00 am
talk about spin! where’s bill o’reilly when we need him…i can hear him now…so, just forget about all these committees and do your damn jobs.
Comment by pam — June 6, 2007 @ 6:24 pm