Agencies regulate the release of genetically engineered materials into the environment?

• A. FDA and EPA
• B. USDA and EPA
• C. NIH and CDC
• D. OSHA and NIOSH

Answer: (B)

Regulation of environmental release for genetically engineered materials is handled by agencies that oversee agricultural deployment and environmental risk. The United States Department of Agriculture, through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, evaluates and permits field tests and releases of genetically engineered plants and animals to prevent harm to crops, ecosystems, and agriculture. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates environmental releases of organisms or products with pesticidal properties under relevant environmental laws. While FDA focuses on safety of GE-derived foods, it does not regulate environmental release. NIH/CDC concentrate on biosafety in health research and public health, and OSHA/NIOSH focus on worker safety. So the combination of USDA and EPA best reflects who regulates the release into the environment.