UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION
NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES
Volume 29, No. 5
September/October 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Development of Health-Related Waist Circumference Thresholds
within BMI Categories
Comparison of Dietary Intakes Associated with Metabolic Syndrome
Risk Factors in Young Adults
Carl Keen Receives College Award of Distinction
FDA Warns Against Breast Milk Drug
Folic Acid Underused by Women of Childbearing Age
FDA Says Calories Count
High-Calorie Diets May Lead to Prostate Enlargement
Preventing Weight Gain In Kids- No Carbonated Drinks!
Millions of Children Could be Saved with Better Nutrition
Poor Diet and Lack of Exercise are Catching Up with Smoking as
the Leading Cause of US Death
FDA, Alliance Work to Improve Health Information
NIH Evidence Report Confirms Benefits of Fish Oil
Fish Oil Supplements May have Same Contaminants as Fresh Fish
Lead In Candy Imported form Mexico
Safeguards Strengthen Against Mad Cow Disease
Updating the Facts On Agricultural Biotechnology
WIC Packaging Being Reformulated
First Draft of Dietary Guidelines
Carbohydrate Confusion
California Childhood Obesity Conference
Subscription for NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES
Sheri Zidenberg-Cherr, PhD, Editor Department of Nutrition University of California Davis, CA 95616
NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES is prepared by Sheri Zidenberg-Cherr, PhD, Nutrition Specialist, Cristy Hathaway, and staff. It is designed to provide research-based information on ongoing nutrition and food-related programs. It is published bimonthly (six times annually) as a service of the University of California Cooperative Extension and the United States Department of Agriculture. Subscription to NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES is available from UC Cooperative Extension, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California. Cost is ten dollars ($10.00) for a one-year subscription. Subscriptions and questions or comments on articles may be addressed to: NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-5270. Phone (916)752-3387; FAX, (916) 752-8905.
Development of Health-Related Waist Circumference: Thresholds within BMI Categories
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health, evaluates overweight and associated disease risk by considering body mass index, waist circumference, and risk factors for obesity related diseases. For men, it is currently recommended that waist circumference does not exceed 40 inches, and for women, recommendations are that waist circumference should not exceed 35 inches.
Researchers from Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada recently set out to determine if waist circumference, a predictor of obesity and associated diseases, could also be used as a predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. Informa-tion from 8,823 men and 9,431 women between the ages of 20 to 65 years collected during the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES III) and the Canadian Heart Health Survey were analyzed to determine the relationship between waist size and risk of heart disease. Subjects were divided into four clinically accepted BMI categories: normal weight (18.5 – 24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25 – 29.9 kg/m2), Obese I (30 – 34.9 kg/m2), and Obese II and III (= 35 kg/m2) and a cutoff for waist circumference was determined for each classification. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between a waist circumference that exceeded the established cut-off level for each BMI category and heart disease risk. Additionally, it was concluded that establishing four acceptable waist circumferences, rather than one, was a more effective means by which to determine cardiovascular health risk. Although these results are promising, future investigations in diverse groups must be completed before national recommendations can be made.
Adapted from: Ardern CI, Janssen I, Ross R, Katzmarzyk PT.
Development of health-related waist circumference thresholds within BMI categories.
Obesity Research; 2004 Jul;12(7):1094-103.
Karrie Heneman, PhD, Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis.
Comparison of Dietary Intakes Associated with Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors in Young Adults: the Bogalusa Heart Study
The National Cholesterol Education Program III (NCEP III) defines metabolic syndrome as the existence of at least three of the following five condi-tions: having triglycerides above 150 mg/dL, a waist circumference = 35 inches for women and = 40 inches for men, blood pressure = 130/85 mm Hg, fasting blood sugar of = 110 mg/dL, and/or HDL cholesterol = 50 mg/dL for women and = 40 mg/dL for men. Research suggests individuals with metabolic syndrome are at higher risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type-two diabetes; however, the specific causes of metabolic syndrome are still unclear.
The Bogalusa Heart Study, begun in 1972 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, aims to study risk factors for cardiovascular disease in an ethnically diverse community by following cohorts of children from a young age through adulthood. In this investigation, data from 1420 men and women between the ages of 19-38 years who participated in the Bogalusa Heart Study were used to determine the relationship between intake of specific food groups and development of metabolic syndrome. Statistical analysis revealed that consumption of fruit, fruit juice, and vegetables reduces risk of developing metabolic syndrome while consumption of sweetened beverages, such as soda, increases risk. These findings support the consumption of a diet high in produce, but low in added sugar.
Adapted from: Yoo S, Nicklas T, Baranowski T, Zakeri IF, Yang
SJ, Srinivasan SR, Berenson GS. Am J Clin Nutr; October 2004; 80(4):841-8.
Karrie Heneman, PhD, Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis.
Carl Keen Receives College Award of Distinction
Carl Keen, professor and chair of the Department of Nutrition, was one of six honored with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Award of Distinction at this year’s annual College Celebration. He received the award as “Outstanding Faculty.” The award is the highest recognition presented by the college to individuals whose contributions and achievements enrich the image and reputation of the college and enhance its ability to provide public service. As chair, Keen has guided the department through a period of phenomenal growth over the past 11 years and established several endowments. Keen is recognized internationally for connecting basic science with applied industry needs. Keen received his bachelor's and doctor's degrees from UC Davis.
Source: CA&ES Currents; October 22, 2004.
FDA Warns Against Breast Milk Drug
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is cautioning breast-feeding women not to use an unapproved drug, domperidone, which may increase the secretion of prolactin and therefore increase milk produc-tion. Several published reports and case studies have linked domperidone to cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and sudden death in patients receiving an intravenous form of the drug.
More than 2000 reports of adverse effects from 33 countries have been related to domperidone, and the drug has been withdrawn from marketing in a number of countries. Several nations, including Canada, have approved oral domperidone for gastric disorders, as it increases contractions of the stomach and bowel.
But domperidone is not approved in any country for enhancing breast milk production. It is not known if domperidone causes adverse effects in newborns, and drug labels in the oral form of the drug notes that it is excreted in the milk of lactating women and caution women taking domperidone to avoid breastfeeding.
The FDA alert was issued following the discovery that some women who breastfeed and/or pump breast milk are purchasing the drug from US pharmacies that prepare it from bulk ingredients or from foreign sources. The agency issued six warning letters to pharmacies and firms that supply domperidone, requiring responses that delineate specific steps that will be taken to correct the violations and prevent them from recurring. Further violations may result in seizure and injunction.
The letters issued by the FDA stated that all drug products containing domperidone violate the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act because they are unapproved new drugs and mislabeled. In addition, importing domperidone-containing products or distributing them within the United States violates that law. The agency sent out an Import Alert urging FDA field personnel to be on the lookout for attempts to import this drug into the Untied States.
A number of Internet sites offer resources for ordering domperidone to breastfeeding women, and many of them downplay the potential health risks of the drug to women and their infants. Although these sites caution that domperidone should be taken only after all other factors that may result in insufficient milk supply have been addressed, the FDA recommends that breastfeeding women not use the drug under any circumstances.
“The FDA recognizes the health benefits that breast milk provides for a nursing infant and is taking these actions… not to discourage women from breastfeeding but rather to warn them not to use this particular drug while they are breastfeeding,” an FDA statement said.
Source: Summary by Tracy Hampton, PhD; JAMA; 292(3); July 21, 2004; p. 322.
Folic Acid Underused by Women of Childbearing Age
Women who start taking daily folic acid supplements (0.4 mg) at least 3 months before conceiving can reduce risk for neural tube defects by as much as 70%. Investigators at four clinics in Arkansas asked 322 women (age range, 18-45; 51% black) at routine gynecologic visits about supplement use.
Although 62% of women were aware that folic acid supplementation prevents birth defects, only 27% of these women and 23% of all women were taking daily folic acid supplements or multivitamins. Only 40% of the cohort reported weekly use. Only 8% of young black women (age range, 18-24) reported daily use of folic acid supplements. Daily use was associated significantly with being married, with an annual household income of at least $30,000 with awareness of folic acid’s benefits, and especially with a reported tendency to follow physician advice. Higher educational level and pregnancy planning also were associated with daily folic acid use.
These data confirm previous findings in that they document a substantial gap between patients’ knowledge about the benefits of folic acid supplementation and those patients’ actions. To try to limit neural tube defects, healthcare providers should emphasize the benefits of folic acid use to women of childbearing age at routine visits, and clinicians and public health officials should collaborate in devising ways to increase folic acid intake among such women.
Reference:
Cleves MA et al. Folic acid use by women receiving routine gynecologic care.
Obstet Gynecol; 2004 Apr; 103:746-53.
Source: Rebar, Robert W. MD; Journal Watch; 24 (10); May 15,
2004; p. 82.
A new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report authored by its Obesity Working Group focuses on how the FDA can help to combat the obesity epidemic by focusing on the message that “calories count.”
It includes recommendations to strengthen food labeling and emphasize calories to educate consumers about maintaining a healthy diet and weight. This includes increasing enforcement to ensure food labels accurately portray serving size, revising and reissuing guidance on developing obesity drugs, and strengthening research on obesity reduction and the development of foods that are healthier and low in calories. The report also encourages restaurants to provide calorie and nutrition information to their patrons. For more information on this, please visit: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/nutrcal.html.
High-Calorie Diets May Lead to Prostate Enlargement
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, and prostate enlargement affects half of all men over age 50. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, does not indicate prostate cancer risk by itself, but it occurs when normal prostate cells grow abnormally, and therefore it is considered a possible risk factor.
The risk factors for BPH are age and family history. Recent studies link high caloric intake, as well as diets high in protein and some polyunsaturated fats, with prostate enlargement. Researchers suggest that excess calorie consumption could somehow directly stimulate prostate enlargement through excess body fat and its effects on hormone levels. This is an active field for research at present, so stay tuned.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (4); July-August 2004; p.179.
Preventing Weight Gain In Kids – No Carbonated Drinks!
Recommendations about curbing the childhood obesity epidemic are not in short supply, but effective published interventions certainly are. Now, investigators in the UK have tested a school-based education program to limit carbonated beverage consumption and weight gain.
They randomly assigned 644 children (age range, 7-11 years) in six schools to 29 clusters: In 15, a researcher conducted (during 1 year) four 1-hour classroom sessions to discourage consumption of sweetened and unsweetened carbonated beverages; the other 14 received no instruction (control). Children recorded drinking behavior in 3-day diaries before and after the trial.
From baseline to 1 year, the mean number of carbonated drinks consumed in 3 days decreased from 1.9 to 1.3 in the intervention clusters and from 1.6 to 1.8 in the control clusters. The percentage of overweight and obese children declined by 0.2% in the intervention clusters and increased by 7.5% in the control clusters. Both differences between intervention and control clusters were significant.
Rather than a complicated message about diet, exercise, food types, drink types (high-calorie vs. no-calorie), and glycemic index, the line from these investigators is brief and focused: Children should stop consuming carbonated drinks. Would a similar message work in the US? It’s certainly worth a try.
Reference:
James J et al. Preventing childhood obesity by reducing consumption of carbonated
drinks: Cluster randomized control trial. BMJ; 2004 May 22; 328: 1237-9.
Source: Bauchner, Howard MD; Journal Watch; 24 (14); July 15,
2004; p. 114.
Millions of Children Could be Saved with Better Nutrition
Recommendations about curbing the childhood obesity epidemic are not in short supply, but effective published interventions certainly are. Now, investigators in the UK have tested a school-based education program to limit carbonated beverage consumption and weight gain.
They randomly assigned 644 children (age range, 7-11 years) in six schools to 29 clusters: In 15, a researcher conducted (during 1 year) four 1-hour classroom sessions to discourage consumption of sweetened and unsweetened carbonated beverages; the other 14 received no instruction (control). Children recorded drinking behavior in 3-day diaries before and after the trial.
From baseline to 1 year, the mean number of carbonated drinks consumed in 3 days decreased from 1.9 to 1.3 in the intervention clusters and from 1.6 to 1.8 in the control clusters. The percentage of overweight and obese children declined by 0.2% in the intervention clusters and increased by 7.5% in the control clusters. Both differences between intervention and control clusters were significant.
Rather than a complicated message about diet, exercise, food types, drink types (high-calorie vs. no-calorie), and glycemic index, the line from these investigators is brief and focused: Children should stop consuming carbonated drinks. Would a similar message work in the US? It’s certainly worth a try.
Reference:
Caulfield LE, de Onis M, Blössner M, and Black RE. Undernutrition as an
underlying cause of child deaths associated with diarrhea, pneumonia, malaria,
and measles. Am J Clin Nutr; Jul 2004; 80: 193 - 198.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (4); July-August 2004; p.152.
Poor Diet and Lack of Exercise Are Catching Up with Smoking as the Leading Cause of US Deaths
Although smoking still leads the way as the top cause of death, contributing to 18% of all deaths in 2000, a recent Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report shows that a poor diet and a lack of physical activity are a close second, causing 17% of the deaths in the US population. According to the researchers, approximately half of the 2.4 million deaths in 2000 could be attributed to behavioral risk factors. The CDC estimates that poor diet and reduced physical activity will soon overtake tobacco as the leading cause of death. The CDC estimates that 64% of all American are overweight, including more than 30% who are considered obese. Approximately 15% of children and adolescents aged 6 to 19 are overweight, almost double the rate of two decades ago (1).
Reference:
Koplan JP and Dietz WH. Caloric Imbalance and Public Health Policy JAMA, 2002;
291:1238-1245.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (3); May-June 2004; p. 98.
FDA, Alliance Work to Improve Health Information Access
CLINICAL TRIALS
Did you know that among all American with high blood pressure, Mexican-Americans are less likely than whites or African-Americans to know that they have it? Or that one-third of Hispanics with diabetes are undiagnosed?
Those statistics, prepared by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health, highlight the need to reinforce the commitment to improve consumer access to health information, especially to Hispanic communities, according to Dr. Lester M. Crawford, acting FDA Commissioner.
Crawford and Jane Delgado, PhD, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, are working together to provide timely, accurate, and scientifically based health information to Hispanics to help them take active steps to prevent disease and stay healthy.
As part of that effort, the FDA and the Alliance promoted National Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, 2004. The outreach effort promotes two sources of consumer health information:
The FDA web site at www.fda.gov/oc/Spanish/ provides a wealth of consumer-friendly health information in Spanish and English on topics ranging from medicine and children to mammograms and breast cancer.
Su Familia, a toll-free National Hispanic Family Health Helpline, offers free, reliable and confidential helath information in Spanish and English. The Helpline, (866) SU-FAMILIA is a program of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health and is made possible by the support from HHS.
Source: FDA Consumer; 38(5); September-October 2004; p. 7.
NIH Evidence Report Confirms Benefits of Fish Oil
Fish oil can help reduce deaths from heart disease, according to new evidence reports by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in a study financed by the NIH. The systematic reviews of the available literature found evidence that long chain omega-3 fatty acids, the beneficial component ingested by eating fish or taking a fish oil supplement, reduce heart attack and other problems related to heart and blood vessel disease in persons who already have these conditions, as well as their overall risk of death. Although omega-3 fatty acids do not alter total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, evidence suggests that they can reduce levels of triglycerides, a fat in the blood that may contribute to heart disease.
The review also found other evidence indicating that fish oil can help lower high blood pressure slightly, may reduce risk of coronary artery reblockage after angioplasty, may increase exercise capability among patients with clogged arteries, and may possibly reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats, particularly in individuals with a recent heart attack.
The evidence reports of the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids are part of a series conducted by AHRQ-supported Evidence-based Practice Centers at the request of the NIH’s Office of Dietary Supplements, which plans to use the findings to develop research agendas on the issues. Five reports are currently being issued, and an additional 6 reports will be issued next year.
Findings from the 3 other AHRQ evidence reviews indicate that:
Summaries of evidence reviews are available on AHRQ’s Web site at www.ahrq.gov/clinic/epcindex.htm#dietsup and on the National Guideline Clearing house Web site at www.guideline.gov (select “EPC reports”). Free printed copies are available from the AHRQ Publications Clearinghouse by calling 800-358-9295 or sending an email to ahrqpubs@ahrq.gov.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (4); July-August 2004; p.179.
Fish Oil Supplements May Have Same Contaminants As Fresh Fish
Currently, millions of US consumers are taking fish oil supplements to obtain health benefits, without realizing that supplements can have the same contaminants as fresh fish. In 2001, the US Food and Drug Administration tested samples of different types of fish for mercury contamination and found that tilefish, swordfish, king mackerel, and shark contain the highest levels of mercury. According to the US Pharmacopeia’s (USP) Verification Program for dietary supplements, whole-fish mercury contamination issues carry over to fish oil supplements.
Although increasing omega-3 fatty acids through foods is preferable, it may not be practical because of the amount of food that would have to be consumed. The USP offers these tips to help consumers make informed choices when selecting fish oil supplements:
Not all fish oil supplements are alike; choose high-quality fish oil, which is rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (DHA).
Avoid supplements made from halibut, shark liver oils, or cod liver oil, because they may contain excessive and unhealthy levels of vitamin A. In addition pregnant women should avoid fish oils made from shark, tilefish, swordfish, and king mackerel because they may contain high levels of mercury, which potentially can cause harm to a developing fetal nervous system.
Choose a form that is best for you. Rather than taking capsules, there is an emulsified form that can be squeezed onto a spoon.
Read labels to check the total amount of omega-3 fatty acids in each tablet; they vary from 100 to 600 mg per capsule. Consumers with documented coronary heart disease are advised by the American Heart Association (AHA) to consume a combined total of approximately 1 g (1000 mg) of EPA and DHA per day in consultation with a physician.
According to the AHA, omega fatty acids benefit the heart of healthy people and those at high risk of cardiovascular disease. Randomized clinical trials have shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplements may reduce cardiovascular events. They may also slow the progression of atherosclerosis in coronary patients; however more studies need to confirm this. Consult your doctor about the advisability of taking omega-3 fatty acid-containing supplements.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (3); May-June 2004; p. 98.
Lead in Candy Imported From Mexico
The FDA Addresses Lead in Mexican Candy
On March 25, 2004 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a letter to manufacturers, importers and distributors of imported candy addressing lead in these products. In this letter the FDA states its intent to publish a new guidance document that will reduce the FDA guidance level for considering enforcement action against candy products containing lead. The FDA currently has a guidance level of 0.5 parts per million for lead in candy. The FDA also notes specific ingredients (in particular chili powder and tamarind) that may be an avoidable source of lead exposure, and highlights certain manufacturing and storage practices that may contribute to lead in candy.
Below is the FDA statement issued April 9, 2004 regarding lead in Mexican candy, along with a link to the March 25, 2004 FDA letter to manufacturers, importers and distributors of imported candy.
FDA Statement on Lead Contamination in Certain Candy Products Imported from Mexico
The FDA is aware of a problem associated with lead contamination of some Mexican candy products being sold in the United States and is advising parents, care providers and other responsible individuals that it would be prudent to not allow children to eat these products at this time.
The FDA has compiled information, which indicates that candies and related products that contain significant amounts of chili powder may contain higher lead levels than other types of candy, such as candy that contains predominantly sugar. Examples of chili containing products include lollipops coated with chili and powdery mixtures of salt, lemon flavor and chili seasoning sold as a snack item.
In addition, tamarind, a popular Mexican candy item, can become contaminated with lead if it is sold in poorly made glazed ceramic vessels that release lead from the glaze into the candy.
It has been a longstanding objective of the FDA to reduce, to the extent practicable, consumer exposure to lead from foods. The adverse health effects of elevated lead levels in children are well documented and can result in delayed mental and physical development and learning deficiencies.
The FDA is taking action to reduce the risk of potential exposure of children to lead from these candy products. The FDA believes that contamination of chili powder may be occurring at certain steps in the manufacturing process. The FDA will be working with Mexican government and industry personnel to resolve this problem, and plans to establish more stringent guidance for considering regulatory action against candy products containing lead in the near future, as announced in a letter to manufacturers, importers, and distributors of imported candy on March 25, 2004. The letter is available online at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/pbltr.html.
Also of interest on this topic:
The California Department of Health Services lead test results for imported
candy are now available on-line at the following link:
http://www.dhs.ca.gov/ps/fdb/default.htm
Source: Jan Schilling, MPH, MS, RD. California Department of Health Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch.
Safeguards Strengthen Against Mad Cow Disease
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) have taken three actions to strengthen existing safeguards that protect consumers against the agent that causes bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as “mad cow disease.”
In July 2004, the FDA published an interim rule (IFR) that prohibits the use of certain materials from cattle that could carry the BSE-infectious agent in human food, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. These high-risk materials, known as “specified risk materials” (SRMs), include the brain, skull, eyes, and spinal cord of cattle 30 months of age or older, and a portion of the small intestine and tonsils from all cattle, regardless of their age. Also prohibited are materials from non-ambulatory disabled cattle, material from cattle not inspected and passed for human consumption, and mechanically separated beef.
This IFR, in conjunction with IFRs issued by the USDA in January 2004, will minimize human exposure to materials that may put people at risk for a disease similar to BSE called variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD). Scientific studies have demonstrated that SRMs could contain the BSE agent when derived from cattle that are harboring the BSE agent. Consumption of products contaminated with the agent that causes BSE is the likely cause of vCJD in people. This rule was effective immediately, but the FDA accepted comments until October 12, 2004, for consideration before publishing the final rule.
In a second action, the FDA published a proposed rule requiring manufacturers and processors of human food, dietary supplements, and cosmetics derived from certain cattle materials to maintain records showing that prohibited materials are not used in their products.
Finally, the USDA and the FDA jointly published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) requesting comments and scientific information on additional measures to help prevent the spread of BSE. In the ANPR, the FDA is requesting comments on potential new controls on animal feed, including:
Removing SRMs from all animal feed, including pet food, to control the risks of cross contamination throughout feed manufacture and distribution, as well as on the farm.
Requiring dedicated equipment or facilities for handling and storing feed and ingredients that may contain prohibited material during manufacturing and transportation, to prevent cross-contamination.
Prohibiting the use of all mammalian and poultry protein in feed for ruminants (such as cows, sheep, and goats), to prevent cross-contamination.
Prohibiting materials from non-ambulatory disabled cattle and dead stock from use in all animal feed.
The FDA’s current animal feed rule, which became effective in 1997, helps
prevent the establishment and spread of BSE through feed in the United States.
The FDA and state investigators inspect animal feed firms to ensure compliance
with the rule. According to the latest inspection results of July 17, 2004,
among companies handling material prohibited in feed ruminants, compliance rates
remain greater than 99 percent.
For more information, visit www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/bse.html or www.fsis.usda.gov/oa/topics/bse.htm.
Source: FDA Consumer; 38(5); September-October 2004; p. 7.
Updating the Facts on Agricultural Biotechnology
Myth: Modern biotechnology (Bt) is inherently different from conventional breeding and poses greater risks.
Fact: Modern Bt is a refinement of techniques that have been used to improve plants for thousands of years. The main differences, compared to conventional breeding are that modern technology is a more precise process and there is a broader array of plant improvements that are possible.
Many authoritative scientific bodies, including the National Academy of Sciences, have concluded that crops enhanced by using modern biotechnology are as safe as crops improved through classical breeding methods.
Because of advanced knowledge and greater scrutiny by regulatory agencies, biotech crops and foods may even be safer than their conventionally bred counterparts. Modern Bt allows the transfer of a single, well-characterized trait into the crop whereas hybridization allows the transfer of not only the desired trait, but also thousands of unwanted and sometimes poorly understood traits. Therefore, with Bt, scientists have a better understanding of the changes being made and are in a better position to assess the safety of the food products.
One example of improved safety is a biotech crop that may lower exposure to naturally occurring toxins. Research has shown that Bt corn helps prevent damage to corn stalks caused by the corn ear worm. That damage often leads to invasion by fungi that produce the toxin fumonisin, which may be linked to esophageal cancer in humans.
Myth: Bt foods will introduce new allergens into the food supply, putting susceptible people at risk.
Fact: Usually protein is the component of food that provokes an allergic response, but only a very small number of proteins are allergens. Common sources of food allergens include such widely consumed foods as milk, eggs, wheat, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and soy.
Today Bt companies avoid using genetic material from plant foods commonly associated with allergies. Furthermore, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations would require that the use of genes from a known allergenic food would require allergenicity testing. In the mid 1990s, a biotech variety of soybean was developed with a gene from the Brazil nut, and testing sponsored by the company revealed the presence of an allergen. As a result, this soybean was never sold to consumers, demonstrating how rigorous testing can provide additional assurance of safety.
Researchers are also using Bt to remove allergens from foods, such as peanuts. The future of allergen-free foods may expand the choice of wholesome foods available to allergy sufferers.
Myth: Consumers want foods produced through Bt to be labeled.
Fact: The results of a nationally representative consumer survey (conducted by Cogent Research for the International Food Information Council, January 2004) show that when individuals are asked to identify information currently not on food labels that they would like to see added, three out of four say “nothing” and only 1 percent mention “genetically engineered” food. When the current FDA labeling policy is explained to consumers, 53 percent support the policy and 9 percent neither support nor oppose the policy.
Consumers who have heard “a lot” about Bt are significantly more likely than those who have heard less to support the FDA labeling policy, suggesting that providing consumers with increased information may go a long way to increasing understanding of the policy. Unlike the results from the survey conducted by Cogent Research, however, the results of some polls suggesting that consumers want labeling do not represent the attitudes of the general public and often use manipulative terminology to bias responses.
Myth: Foods derived from Bt are not regulated.
Fact: Plants and foods derived through the use of Bt are regulated by as many as three agencies: the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the FDA.
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service regulates Bt crops to ensure that new varieties do not pose a threat to the environment while they are growing in the field.
The EPA regulates Bt crops with built-in protection from harmful pests. The EPA regulations ensure not only that the new plant is safe for the environment, but also that the protection produced by the plant is safe for consumers.
In 1992, The FDA issued a policy statement addressing the regulation of biotech foods and instituted a pre-market review process. Although this pre-market review process is voluntary, companies seeking to commercialize new Bt foods have honored it without exception. Since 1992, the FDA has conducted more than 51 reviews of Bt foods, none of which raised safety concerns.
Myth: Agricultural Bt will not benefit developing countries.
Fact: It is estimated that about 840 million people do not currently have access to sufficient food supplies. Moreover, according to the US Census Bureau, the present world population is about 6 billion and is projected to grow to about 9 billion by 2050 (http://www.census.gov/ipc/www/worldpop.html). As the rapid increases in the levels of food production brought about in the last several decades begin to level off and the availability of arable land declines, increased demand for food and fiber, largely in the developing world, will need to be met, primarily through increased yields.
Low yields can contribute to a shortage of nutritious foods in developing countries. Bt can help by developing plants to protect from insects and viral pests. For example, Bt was used to “immunize” papaya plants against the papaya ringspot virus, which had devastated papaya crops in Hawaii. This technique is now being applied to protect high-value papaya and cucurbit crops throughout Southeast Asia, India, the South Pacific, and Australia.
As former President Jimmy Carter noted, “Biotechnology is not the enemy. Hunger is.” Together with other forms of intervention, developments in Bt can contribute to enhancing the nutritional intakes of people throughout the world.
Adapted from: Food Insight; March/April 2004; pp. 4-6.
WIC Package Being Reformulated
The National Academies of Science Institute of Medicine (IOM) Food and Nutrition Board released a preliminary report in August with their findings on the nutritional value of the foods currently offered to Women Infants and Children (WIC) participants. The final report is due February 2005.
In September 2003, US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) assigned the board to review WIC in a 22-month study. According to a FNS spokesperson, the study will use current science to review nutritional requirements and assess whether the WIC population has additional nutritional needs that aren’t met by the current food package.
Based on the IOM’s study, USDA/FNS, which administers WIC, will recommend changes in WIC foods, or change the amounts to address different WIC groups. This will include a specific set of priority nutrients and nutrition recommendations.
In September 2003, FNS sought comments on revisions to the WIC food package. It received almost 200 letters from local WIC agencies, public interest groups, WIC state agencies, program participants, and the nutrition industry.
Most indicated that they were happy with the structure and design of WIC food packages. However, a majority wanted to expand the priority nutrients to include folate, zinc, vitamin B6, fiber, vitamin D, and magnesium, citing research that found these nutrients lacking in WIC participants’ diets. The most frequent foods commentators said they wanted added were fruits and veggies.
According to FNS, WIC food is high in one or more of the following nutrients: protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. These nutrients are frequently lacking in the diets of WIC participants.
Different food packages are provided for different categories of participants. WIC foods include iron-fortified infant formula and infant cereal, iron-fortified adult cereal, vitamin C-rich fruit/veget-able juice, eggs, milk, cheese, peanut butter, dried beans or peas, tuna fish and carrots. Special infant formulas and certain medical foods may be provided when prescribed by a physician or health professional for a specified medical condition.
The 2004 Child Nutrition Reauthorization legislation directs USDA to issue a final rule updating the prescribed supplemental foods 18 months after the final rule due in February 2005.
“We recommended that fruit juice be removed, and we wanted meat products for older infants,” said an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) spokesperson.
The AAP also recommended adding another can of formula for infants less than six months old to meet their nutritional requirements, and less formula for infants older than six months, since complementary food introduced at this age reduces the need for formula. Juice should not be included in packages for infants less than six months, according to the AAP.
Also, meat should be added after six months as the best source of iron and zinc. Allowances should be made to provide more fruits and vegetables for children between 1 and 5 years old.
Finally, the AAP thought the USDA should do more to support breastfeeding mothers and infants including providing supplements of vitamin D for mothers of all breastfeeding infants.
Results from a study by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) indicate positive benefits of participation of in WIC.
It is estimated that every dollar spent on WIC results in between $1.77 and $3.13 in Medicaid savings for newborns and their mothers.
The program has been proven to:
“All types of food currently in the WIC food packages, including iron-fortified infant formula, infant cereal, milk, iron-fortified breakfast cereal, cheese, vitamin C-rich fruit and vegetable juices, beans, peanut butter, eggs, and (for breastfeeding women) carrots and tuna fish, should be retained because each type of food makes an important contribution to the nutritional content of the package. In addition, these foods are acceptable, practical, accessible, and cost-efficient,” commented FRAC in a statement.
Go to: www.fns.usda.gov/wic/aboutwic/wicataglance.htm
for more information about WIC.
Source: Nutrition Week; 34(15); July 26, 2004; p. 3.
First Draft of Dietary Guidelines
After a great deal of discussion, the Dietary Guidelines Committee has settled on a first draft of the dietary guidelines (which is listed below) after its June meeting. However, some issues remain unresolved, and this may not be the last word.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (4); July-August 2004; p.151.
Many doctors and dietitians seem just as confused about carbohydrates as the public is. For every study that states that carbohydrates are beneficial, another says that they are responsible for weight gain and high blood sugar levels. A recent study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that for a 6-month period, dieters in a low-carbohydrate plan lost more weight than participants in a low-fat regimen. However, in the same journal, other research showed that after a year, both the low-carbohydrate and low-fat groups had lost about the same amount of weight. It’s calories!
Reference:
Stern L, Iqbal N, Seshadri P, et al. The Effects of Low-Carbohydrate versus
Conventional Weight Loss Diets in Severely Obese Adults: One-Year Follow-up
of a Randomized Trial. Ann Intern Med, May 2004; 140: 778 - 785.
Source: Nutrition Today; 39 (4); July-August 2004; p.152.
SUBSCRIPTION
FOR NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES NEWSLETTER
NOTE: The top line of the mailing label shows the expiration date for your subscription. Please renew before that date to avoid a break in service.
____ Renew my subscription o Start a new subscription
Enclosed is a payment of $10.00 for a one year subscription (6 issues). Checks should be payable to the Regents of the University of California.
PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION TO ENSURE ACCURACY
Name_______________________________________________________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________________________________________
City____________________________State_____________Zip____________County_______________________
Professional Affiliation (optional)__________________________________________________________________
_____The above is a change of address
Mail this form and payment to:
NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES
Department of Nutrition, University of California
One Shields Ave.
Davis, California, 95616-8669.
The University of California, in compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and the Rehabilitation Act of
1973, does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national
origin, sex, or mental or physical handicap in any of its programs or activities,
or with respect to any of its employment policies, practices, or procedures.
The University of California does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry,
sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship, medical condition (as defined
in section 12926 of the California Government Code), nor because individuals
are disabled or Vietnam era veterans. Inquiries regarding this policy may be
directed to the Director, Office of Affirmative Action, Division of Agriculture
and Natural Resources, 300 Lakeside Drive, Oakland, CA 94612-3550, (510) 987-0097.
NUTRITION PERSPECTIVES
University of California
Department of Nutrition
One Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616-5270