News for October 2nd, 2008

FDA makes blunder during hiring of PR firm to improve image

Every company can use a good spin doctor from time to time, and it looks like the Food and Drug Administration () is no exception.

Last month I told you that California Rep. Harry Waxman, who serves as head of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, raised concerns that items outlined on the ’s 2007 priorities list appeared to prioritize industry desires over consumer protection.

This, just months after more than 80 American deaths were linked to tainted heparin that was made in Baxter International Inc.’s facility in . officials later acknowledged they had not inspected that facility and claimed they had insufficient staff and financial resources to regularly inspect overseas manufacturers.

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