FDA will check Japanese foods for radiation

WASHINGTON – The Food and Drug Administration says it will monitor foods imported from Japan for radiation exposure.

In a statement released Friday, officials said they expect no risk to the U.S. food supply. They are collecting information on where imports are grown, harvested or manufactured in Japan so they can ensure those products are not tainted. They will also check food that may have passed through Japan.

The agency works with Customs and Border Patrol to inspect shipments of imported foods. The FDA said that imports of Japanese foods, which have been severely limited since the earthquake and nuclear crisis, make up less than four percent of all U.S. imports. The most common imports are seafood, snack foods and processed fruits and vegetables.

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Online:

FDA Radiation Safety: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm247403.htm