Wisconsin Ag Connection - Kohl Proposal Would Add More Food Safety Inspection Jobs

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Kohl Proposal Would Add More Food Safety Inspection Jobs
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 08/17/2011

U.S. Senator Herb Kohl says one of his major goals before leaving office later next year is to help improve food safety.

During a visit to Ocean Spray cranberry company in Wisconsin Rapids this week, the Milwaukee Democrat highlighted his plans to protect consumers from the risk of eating contaminated foods by hiring more inspectors through the Food and Drug Administration.

Kohl chairs the Senate agriculture appropriations subcommittee. He says the agency's budget has been increased by nearly 60-percent over the past three years to help pay for food safety programs; and he hopes that number can be even higher.

"Over 3,000 people die every year from contaminated food and the massive recalls issued in recent months serve as a good reminder that we have a long way to go," Kohl said, adding that another 50 million people get sick from food-borne illnesses each year.

Kohl, who is not seeking re-election in 2012, said he would also like to see more food safety inspectors overseas.

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