WASHINGTON -- United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., today vowed to fight a new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposal that would end the sale of raw oysters that are not subjected to post-harvest processing techniques. This FDA regulation would adversely affect the state's oyster industry and could cripple many South Louisiana restaurants that feature oysters on their menus.

The Louisiana oyster industry currently employs 3,500 Louisianians and has an estimated $318 million impact on the state.

"While the FDA's goal of protecting consumers from oyster-related illnesses is necessary, this regulation is not the appropriate response. The FDA's plan would severely burden Louisiana's oyster industry, putting independent fishermen and mom-and-pop oyster dealers out of business at a time when our economy is facing many challenges," said Sen. Landrieu. "I will work with other members of the Louisiana Delegation to fight this proposal and to protect our oystermen and related industries that are so critical to our state's economy."

Last year, there were more than 87 million cases of food-related illnesses, 371,000 hospitalizations and 5,700 deaths. However, only 15 individuals with pre-existing conditions died from eating raw oysters last year.

"The FDA has bigger fish to fry and should let our seafood industry continue to educate consumers about the risks associated with eating raw products. Imposing burdensome federal regulations that may take away 3,500 much-needed jobs in Louisiana is not the answer," said Sen. Landrieu.