From: Schwetz, Bernard
Sent: Wednesday, February 21, 2001 5:36 PM
To: EXECSEC
Subject: FW: Irradiation Labeling, Docket No 98N-1038



> ----------
> From: 	Silverlining49@hotmail.com[SMTP:SILVERLINING49@HOTMAIL.COM]
> Sent: 	Wednesday, February 21, 2001 5:35:17 PM
> To: 	bschwetz@oc.fda.gov
> Subject: 	Irradiation Labeling, Docket No 98N-1038
> Auto forwarded by a Rule
> 
> 
> 
Bernard A. Schwetz
Food and Drug Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857

Dear Bernard A. Schwetz,

I want irradiated foods to be clearly and conspicuously
labeled. "Irradiation" is a commonly understood term
that FDA should not discard for a deceptive substitute.
I'm not the only one who feels this way. An independent
opinion poll in 1999, commissioned by the American
Association of Retired Persons and the Center for Science
in the Public Interest, showed overwhelming support
for the term "Treated by Irradiation," instead of "Electronically
Pasteurized" or "Cold Pasteurized." Just as consumers
want label information about "dolphin-safe tuna" or
"low fat" foods, they also want clear information on
irradiated food.  

Please don't change the current sensible label. Informed
choice is part of a free-market economy. Some shoppers
want to buy irradiated foods because they want foods
with lower pathogen risks. Other shoppers may avoid
irradiated foods because of changes in taste, smell,
texture, or nutrition, or for other reasons. FDA should
not stand in the way of consumers making those choices
by putting confusing new labels on irradiated food.

Nutritional value in our food, one of the basic elements
for a healthy existence, is mandatory! This color-coded
play with words is an insult! Instead of paying people
to play with words, why don't these companies concentrate
on providing health for humanity! Don't these people
have anything better to do?!  

Please keep in mind that the GOOD OF HUMANITY IS PRIORITY!
There is NO GOOD TO BE ACCOMPLISHED WITH THE TERMINOLOGY
CHANGED TO DECEIVE!  

Your time and consideration are greatly appreciated!
:) Thank you for your attention to this matter. 
God Bless. 



Sincerely,


Louise Collins
50 Fairmount St. Apt.34
Lewiston, Maine 04240