Does nitrite cause cancer? Concerns about validity of FDA-sponsored study delay answer [report to Congress, January 31]
| HERO ID | 38075 |
|---|---|
| Year | 1980 |
| Title | Does nitrite cause cancer? Concerns about validity of FDA-sponsored study delay answer [report to Congress, January 31] |
| Authoring Organization | Comptroller General of the United States |
| Abstract | U.S. General Accounting Office. The Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture are faced with a dilemma regarding nitrite--a substance widely used to preserve, color, and flavor meats products. Using nitrite may pose a long-term cancer risk or other health problems. Not using it could increase risks from botulism food poisoning. Federal law provides that any additive to food shown to cause cancer must be eliminated from use. A substantial unresolved question about the safety of a food additive is also a basis for its removal from use. There is no acceptable chemical substitute for nitrite as a preservative. The validity of the study indicating that nitrite causes cancer has been questioned. Efforts are underway to resolve the questions. GAO's review was requested by seven members of the House of Representatives. |
| Is Certified Translation | No |
| Dupe Override | No |
| Comments | Washington, DC: U.S. General Accounting Office; report no. HRD-80-46. |
| Is Public | Yes |
| Is Qa | No |