I was able to access a letter to Congress from the following PR hacks of some in the food industry:

American Bakers Association, American Frozen Food Institute, American Meat Institute, Frozen Potato Products Institute, Independent Bakers Association, International Bottled Water Association, National Chicken Council, National Confectioners Association, National Fisheries Institute, National Frozen Pizza Institute, National Grain and Feed Association, National Meat Association, Pet Food Institute, Produce Marketers Association, Snack Food Association, United Egg Producers, United Fresh Produce Association

Their argument is simple – “While ensuring the safety of the U.S. food supply is the number one priority of our organizations and the food producers we represent, we urge you to reject any efforts to create a new food tax on consumers and food companies.”

I say BULLSHIT. First, you are interested in your bottom line; if you could pass on the cost to consumers you would do it in a heartbeat. Also, with a budget deficit and a pledge of no new taxes, this cabal knows full well that without some form of user fees, that the FDA will continue to lack the resources to inspect both foreign and domestic food producers, which is what this group really wants.

Pathetic! However, I’ll remember the names when the next outbreak happens.