Washington, DC - Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) made the following comments today about the salmonella outbreak which has now sickened at least 16 people, with 2 needing hospitalization. It is thought that alfalfa sprouts caused this most recent outbreak.
“I am disturbed to hear of another food-related outbreak. Unfortunately, the latest outbreak involving sprouts is taking place in my own backyard.
“To the families who have loved ones sickened during this latest outbreak, you have my deepest sympathies. For now, please focus on caring for your family members, know that we are investigating this case, and we want answers. Also, I ask that all of you who may have recently eaten raw alfalfa sprouts and you have some of the symptoms, please seek medical help. If you have raw alfalfa sprouts in your home, take extra care – especially those of you living with elderly family members, infants, or those with weak immune systems. I would like to commend the Michigan Departments of Community Health and Agriculture for the work they are doing to find the source of the outbreak. I also want to assure them that additional help is on the way.
“This outbreak along with others, such as the peanut product contamination, demonstrates the pressing need for the federal government to act and provide additional guidance and resources to prevent these incidents from occurring.
“I introduced legislation in January that will do just that. H.R. 759, the "Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act of 2009" will grant the Food and Drug Administration the resources and the additional authorities to protect US consumers from tainted foods. The legislation significantly expands FDA traceback capabilites in the event of an outbreak of food borne illness. Additionally, the legislation directs FDA to issue regulations for ensuring the safe production and harvesting of certain food products.
“I urge my colleagues in Congress to act on H.R. 759 will all deliberate speed. The safety and health of Southeast Michiganders, and all Americans, depend on it.”
