1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

The decision to suspend the proficiency testing program for grade "A" milk and finished dairy products is deeply concerning. This program plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of our nation's milk supply. Pausing these vital quality control measures puts public health at risk and undermines consumer confidence in the food system. Federal workforce cuts that impair the ability of agencies like the FDA to fulfill their critical food safety responsibilities are short-sighted and detrimental to public well-being. Robust testing and inspection regimes are essential safeguards against foodborne illnesses and contamination incidents. I urge you to reconsider these cuts and prioritize restoring sufficient staffing and resources to the FDA, allowing it to reinstate the milk proficiency testing program immediately. Protecting public health through rigorous oversight of our food supply should be a paramount concern. Arbitrary downsizing that jeopardizes this mission is unacceptable.