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FDA commissioner wants overseas satellite offices

FDA commissioner wants overseas satellite offices

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration chief proposed to open satellite offices in U.S. embassies abroad to assist with import safety checks of products, such as food and medicines, under its jurisdiction.

   According to the Associated Press and other news services late Thursday, FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach likened his proposal to how private companies have staffed overseas offices with quality control personnel to help oversee goods shipped to the United States. Von Eschenbach referred to his plan as “the FDA beyond our borders.”

   Currently, the FDA performs inspections on imports once they reach U.S. ports.

   Von Eschenbach suggested placing FDA inspectors in five regions, including the Middle East, Europe, India, China, and Central and South America. “Clearly, this involves us being welcomed into those areas,” he told reporters.