WASHINGTON – U.S. and Chinese negotiators are close to agreement on setting the first standards on safety for food imported into this country, say officials of the Food and Drug Administration.
An agreement is expected by December at the earliest.
After a series of food scandals, WND first reported the two countries had never set standards on safety.
Negotiations between the FDA and Chinese counterparts will continue in the U.S. later this month.
"I hope this announcement results in a legally binding agreement that implements effective practices that would establish equivalency standards for food safety between the U.S. and China," Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn. said in a written statement.
Concerns with China imports began with the pet-food scandal that killed or maimed up to 39,000 American cats and dogs. WND's investigation followed into imports of foods meant for human consumption. The New York Times and other major U.S. media followed.
The stunning news followed WND's report FDA inspectors report tainted food imports from China are being rejected with increasing frequency because they are filthy, are contaminated with pesticides and tainted with carcinogens, bacteria and banned drugs.
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