International Fresh Produce Association Supports FDA Announcement; Awaits More Details

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The International Fresh Produce Association welcomed today’s announcement by FDA Commissioner Califf describing structural changes to the Foods Program at the Food and Drug Administration, and anxiously awaits additional details in late February, as indicated by the Commissioner. As the fresh produce industry works tirelessly to provide safe fresh fruits and vegetables that are critical components of a healthy lifestyle, IFPA remains committed to engaging with the regulatory and public health community to implement sound, science-based food safety and nutrition policies. Progress on IFPA’s nutrition strategy, as well as changes in food safety regulations and scientific understanding of outbreaks necessitate a close working relationship with the FDA.  

“The changes proposed today represent significant steps in the right direction. The vision laid out by the Commissioner is likely to streamline decision-making within the Agency,” said Jennifer McEntire, IFPA’s chief food safety and regulatory officer. “The parts of FDA that produce industry members interact most closely with—inspectors, regulatory labs, and import operations, will still be managed separately within the Office of Regulatory Affairs, necessitating strong, collaborative leadership between the new Deputy Commissioner and ORA.” 

As noted in the Reagan-Udall expert review requested by Commissioner Califf, the offices and centers have not always been aligned, leading to delays and inefficiencies. 

“Continued stakeholder engagement is critical as details regarding the relationship between the Human Foods Program and ORA are refined, and to ensure the new structure sets the Agency up for success through changes in leadership,” said McEntire. “It’s critical that the new structure eliminates silos and fosters a prevention-oriented culture.”