BID TO ALTER DELANEY SET FOR SENATE

JOYCE BARRETT

WASHINGTON (FNS) -- A new provision to reform the Delaney Clause is included in a massive regulatory reform bill expected before the Senate in the coming weeks.

The provision is getting praise from members of the anti-Delaney Clause camp, who say without the provision food production costs could rise $175 million. It is also churning up opposition from Delaney supporters, who warn that lives would be lost if the provision passes.

The provision, tucked away in a bill sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Robert Dole, R-Kan., would reform the Delaney Clause by harmonizing the safety standard for pesticide use.

The Delaney Clause, enacted in 1958, sets a zero tolerance for certain substances in fresh and processed food, which includes food additives, pesticide residues that accumulate in processed food, color additives and animal drugs.

The Grocery Manufacturers of America, Washington, is backing the provision and, according to Jeff Nedelman, GMA vice president of communications and strategic planning, "It's full speed ahead," to secure passage against anticipated Democratic opposition.

On the other side of the debate are consumer groups, led by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Ralph Nader and the safe Food Coalition.