State programs for pesticide residues in foods

Two U.S. data collection and dissemination programs, FEEDCON and FOODCONTAM, are described. FEEDCON provides information on contamination levels in animal feeds of toxic chemical residues (pesticides, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, mycotoxins, natural plant toxins, salmonella, and therapeutic drug cross-contaminations). FEEDCON data are collected from approximately 40 state feed regulatory agencies, feed manufacturers, and related groups who subscribe ($100-$200 per year) to the program, which is sponsored by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. FOODCONTAM provides similar information, but is limited to pesticides, heavy metals and industrial chemicals (polychlorinated and polybrominated biphenyls, etc.) in human foods. Both programs have been developed and initiated under U.S. Food and Drug Administration contracts with the Mississippi State Chemical Laboratory. Program structures of both are outlined conceptually, and FOODCONTAM is described in detail. FOODCONTAM data-sharing program development is essentially complete, but expansion by incorporating FDA data with State Laboratory data is nearing reality.