FSA Followed Protocol in Organic Nutritional Review

LONDONAn independent review by the General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) has concluded that the Food Standards Agencys (FSAs) 2009 review of the nutritional merits of organic vs. conventionally-produced food followed good practice at all stages.

GACS conducted the review based on concerns from the Soil Association and the Organic Trade Board regarding the validity of the study and the nature of the agencys communications. Specifically, they were concerned with FSAs finding that showed there are no important differences in the nutrition content, or any additional health benefits, of organic food when compared with conventionally produced food."

GACS concluded the study followed good practice at all stages, and noted comments on the research protocol were invited at an early stage and that the research had undergone extensive and rigorous peer review.

GACS also advised FSA to develop a clear policy on releasing underpinning data not already in the public domain" and to inform interested parties in advance when it is known that results may be published at very short notice and that only limited advance notice can be given of publication.

Commenting on the review, Andrew Wadge, FSA Chief Scientist, said: I am pleased to see the General Advisory Committee on Science has recognized the quality of the systematic review and the quality of the agencys research. The systematic review objectively assessed the evidence in a complex area where the quality of the published data is very variable. The agency is committed to using the best available science and evidence and accepts fully the recommendations made by GACS. We will implement these recommendations to ensure that the agencys science and evidence continues to be of the highest quality."

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