FDA Extends Comment Period on Proposal to Restrict Trans Fat in Processed Foods
As reported on Dec. 17, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is extending the comment period on its preliminary determination that partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), the primary dietary source of artificial trans fat in processed foods, are not “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for use in food. The agency announced today that the Federal Register notice extending the comment period is on display (see docket FDA-2013-N-1317) and will publish tomorrow (Dec. 31).
The comment period is being extended by 60 days, to March 8, 2014. This extension is being provided in response to numerous stakeholder requests to provide additional time for comments.