Will FDA Improve Under Obama?

While uncertainties remain over many of Obama's actions upon becoming president on Jan. 20, 2009, experts seem clear about one aspect relative to FDA: von Eschenbach is out—he plans to tender his resignation before Obama takes office. Somewhat ironically, one of the troubles von Eschenbach was to solve at FDA was the lack of official and consistent leadership under the Bush administration. There is speculation FDA under Obama would focus on food safety: ""He thinks this is a fundamental role of government to ensure that people's food is safe and he has been concerned that we are not in a position to ensure that," said Neera Tanden, a senior campaign adviser" (source: AP).

Among the measures possible under Obama, industry fees for new FDA inspectors could get the acceptance it lacked under Bush, and a produce traceability program could see the light of day.

As for natural products, Obama has not hinted at any positions, but one would think the Democrat-led Congress, including Reps. Waxman and Dingle, might have an influence with the Democratic President, which could be trouble for our industry. However, a good deal of speculation will have to wait until Obama names the new agency head. The drug industry seems to be behind Janet Woodcock, current head of FDA's drug division. Others tout Steven Nissen, a cardiologist, and Joshua Sharfstein, Baltimore health commissioner. Sharfstein once worked for Rep. Waxman. Nissen has drug trial ties, but has raised many concerns over drug safety.

Despite the ominous possible selections for FDA chief, the agency under Obama would still suffer under-funding and likely focus more on food and drug safety, not dietary supplements. Still, signs are pointing to an air of strict consumer protection at FDA. That could affect natural products as the administration progresses.

One interesting rumor is the possibility the "F" be removed from FDA and given to USDA, which would regulate foods (dietary supplements?) via creation of a new food agency dedicated full-time to foods. (source: Washington Wire, WSJ)

This will be an interesting situation to monitor.