What's in Your Food? FDA's Surprising Standards for Contaminants

Food Safety: What the FDA Allows in Your Food The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets limits on the amount of insect parts, rodent hair, and other contaminants allowed in food. A recent video by Doctor of Pharmacy highlighted this, sparking conversation about what's considered safe for consumption. While the presence of such contaminants may seem unsettling, the FDA assures the public that the levels are not harmful. The FDA's Defect Action Levels (DALs) are designed to balance the need for food safety with the realities of food production. These levels are based on scientific evidence and risk assessment. "The FDA's Defect Action Levels are designed to ensure that food is safe for consumption, even if it contains some contaminants," explains Doctor of Pharmacy in her video. Examples of foods with established DALs include coffee beans (animal poop), oregano (rodent hairs), and peanut butter (insect fragments). The video also mentions other foods such as paprika, spaghetti, and canned spinach, which may contain insect parts or rodent hair. These levels are carefully monitored to minimize risks to consumers. While the information might surprise some, it underscores the extensive work done to ensure food safety. Understanding the FDA's regulations allows consumers to approach food choices with informed awareness, rather than alarm.