Sunday, June 14, 2009

Can't find food safety person in a forest of lobbyists

Fox news had a story recently on the lack of concern shown by the new administration because a nominee has not been named for the position of USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety. It certainly is not because of a lack of trying.

Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack is searching for the right candidate. Most have yet to pass the requirement to have not lobbied Congress to vote a certain way.

Now I bet that there are thousands of qualified candidates that could pass that test. Why aren't scientists being considered?

Apparently the meat industry has given our Ag Secy a list of names that would support their initiatives and that they could live with.

Now, Food Safety is certainly something that we believe is central to the health and welfare of our citizens. Why would we choose someone who not be impartial? Knowledge of science and industry, and the ability to make sound judgments and reach consensus should drive the search.

Heck throw my name in the hat. I'll bet that I make informed decisions and could drive consensus and move the process forward.

Give me your thoughts and speak out for food safety...

Rudy Westervelt
rudy@powerinlearning.com

No comments: