Comment from Marty Moir

I agree that irradiation should be encouraged and classifying it as a processing aid seems appropriate and logical. There is no evidence irradiation has any negative effects on produce, meat, or any other food at levels used to reduce pathogens. It is a huge obstacle to require food companies to label products as irradiated,as consumers who are not informed will be less inclined to buy the products. The definition of processing aid fits how irradiation impacts the beef carcass so it should be allowed to be used without labeling. The concern for food safety far outweighs the need to label products with a statement that is not understood or is meaningful. Marty Moir