Sent: Friday, July 25, 2003 4:21 PM
Dear Colleagues:
On Tuesday, July 22nd I met with Tshanda Kalombo, Penelope Naas, Andrew
Dilworth and Marnie Moriarty at the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding
issues pertaining to EU. Directives and Codex. Ms. Naas is the Office
Director of European Union and Regional Affairs. Mr. Dilworth, Ms.
Kalumbo and Ms. Moriarty are trade specialists in the office of
International Trade Administration, Trade Compliance Center.
The Department of Commerce (DOC) has showed a willingness to support our
efforts in lobbying the EU against provisions in the Directives/Codex that
would effect free trade and limit consumer choice. Recently, the DOC sent
a letter to Director General Coleman, EC Health and Consumer Protection,
opposing the banning of health claims under the draft EC Regulations on
Nutrition and Health Claims Made on Foods (See Attachment).
Lash Health Claims Letter.pdf
Ms. Kalumbo is also in the process of proffering a letter opposing the EU
Food Supplements Directive to Commissioner Byrne (EC) on the grounds that it
restricts free trade through the use of positive lists and maximum safe upper
limits. It reasons for scientific assessment in the establishment of any
provision that would place restrictions on supplements.
I believe we have a unique opportunity to network with this department to
further the industry's cause. That was the impetus for the meeting. Our
agenda focused on ways the DOC can work with industry to address
regulatory concerns. After researching our options we agreed on the
following:
- The DOC will speak with European delegations to convene a meeting in
Washington to coincide with Expo East.
- Liaison with FDA and Codex delegates i.e., Beth Yetley to espouse
industry concerns.
- Speak personally on behalf of industry at trade meetings in
Brussels.
- To work with NNFA, CRN and AHPA to compile scientific data to
bolster industry's position at trade meetings.
- Submit position papers/letters opposing restrictive Directive/Codex
language.
Although the meeting was quite fruitful, my DOC colleagues expressed
dismay at the lack of activism among our industry's members. Other than
the NNFA/AHPA and CRN initiatives, there is an apathy which seems all too
pervasive. Additionally, they confided that there are interagency turf
battles and disputes which slow the process of presenting a united front.
The DOC looks to FDA for guidance in these matters and they have been less
than helpful.
The key to success seems to hinge on industry developing a concerted
approach to international trade regulations in which the DOC, USTR and FDA
can act as effective conduits.
James Roza
Director of Quality Assurance
NOW Foods
395 S. Glen Ellyn Rd.
Bloomingdale, Ill. 60108
Phone: 630-545-9098 ext.120
Fax: 630-858-8656
Cell: 630-881-9818
