Agency Impact Analysis: Fruit Juice. The Perception of Ten Firms

摘要

The Agency Impact Analysis examines the aggregate effects of FDA activities on the fruit juice industry. It is based on the perceptions, opinions, and experiences reported by fruit juice company executives from ten firms. During meetings with FDA researchers the executives made 323 comments regarding attitudes and perceptions about 'self' and FDA, topics relating to FDA activities and recommendations. The executives see themselves as vulnerable to agency action or inaction that unfairly places them at a competitive disadvantage. They also see themselves as responsible, knowledgeable and resourceful. Several executives compliment selected agency personnel, policies, and programs. However, they also express concern over agency excesses and unpredictability. Inspections drew more comments than any other topic. Among the more frequently mentioned inspection impacts are the disruption of the work routine and gaps in inspectional coverage. Other recurring topics include labeling and good manufacturing practices regulations. Several comments suggest that FDA should be more circumspect and reasonable (for example, by being aware of the economic effects of frequent labeling changes). Other recommendations seek review of existing food standards, reduction of interagency duplication, improved inspector training, and increased enforcement of rules to prevent economic deception.