The United States Potato Board (USPB) President & CEO Blair Richardson says the potato industry is “very well-positioned” and know the importance of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) regulation to revoke the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status of partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) for use in food.
PHOs is a source of artificial trans fatty acids (TFAs).
The authority on June 16, 2015 gave the food industry three years to completely phase out the use of PHOs.
“Annually, US$1 million of grower assessment revenue, through the USPB, helps fund the Alliance for Potato Research and Education’s [APRE’s] work,” says Richardson.
“Potato growers have clearly spoken of the value they place on APRE’s mission of being…’100% dedicated to expanding and translating scientific research into evidence-based education initiatives that recognize the role of all forms of the potato—a nutritious vegetable—in promoting health for all age groups.'”
“From growers to potato food manufacturers to restaurants, the potato industry, as a whole, can be very proud in its demonstrated leadership to virtually eliminate the use of PHOs and trans fats from our food products far ahead of this government action,” stated Dr. Maureen Storey, APRE President & CEO.
“When the science became clear on trans fats, collectively, we moved quickly and decisively to offer great tasting, potato products that families can enjoy anywhere, any day.”
