Lawmakers, FDA to meet on raw oysters

WASHINGTON -- Concerned that Louisiana could take a major economic hit if the Food and Drug Administration carries out its proposal to require Gulf Coast oysters sold or served from April to October to undergo a sterilization process, the state's congressional members have summoned agency officials to a meeting Tuesday.

"This FDA regulation would have a devastating impact on thousands of oyster producers and Louisiana restaurants who market themselves based on the popularity of Gulf Coast oysters," said Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., who announced the meeting along with Rep. Charlie Melancon, D-Napoleonville.

Landrieu said she hopes the delegation can persuade the FDA to find a solution that will protect the public health, yet not endanger an industry critical to Louisiana.

Oyster producers say the FDA is using mistaken priorities in focusing on oysters harvested during warm-weather months. According to data provided by the Louisiana delegation, 5,700 deaths are attributed annually to food-related illnesses, but only 15 are connected to oyster consumption, and those cases involve people with weak immune systems or other medical problems.

"Louisianians have united in outrage against this proposed ban on fresh Gulf oysters, and the FDA will hear our voice next Tuesday," Melancon said.

But Michael Taylor, senior adviser to the FDA commissioner, has strongly defended the regulations. In a speech last month in New Hampshire, Taylor said education campaigns warning people with poor immune systems against consuming raw oysters in warm weather just haven't worked.

He said the goal of the program was to cut incidents of Vibrio vulnificus from oyster consumption in California, Florida, Louisiana and Texas by 60 percent.

"Even under the most optimistic analysis, only a 35 percent decline in rates was reported in these states during this time, but much of this is attributable to the state of California's decision to ban the sale of all Gulf Coast oysters harvested during the summer that are not processed post harvest," he said.

"We know that this lack of progress is not acceptable to anyone. And so we believe that the time has come for a new approach."

Landrieu and Melancon said the Louisiana oyster industry employs 3,500 people and has an estimated $318 million impact on the state.

. . . . . . . .

Bruce Alpert can be reached at balpert@timespicayune.com or 202.383.7861.