CO continues to be used in tuna processing in Hawaii to enhance color
retention. There is interest among mainland processors as well.
Processors argue that CO is one of several compounds added during the normal
smoking process and therefore should not considered hazardous nor considered an
additive.
The stance the FDA is likely to take will be that CO treatment is an attempt to
mislead the consumer and will therefore be considererd economic adulteration
unless labeled accordingly. The FDA is currently working on a rapid method of
identifying products that have been CO treated.
I look forward to hearing the FDA response.
-- Liz Brown Seafood Technology Program Sheldon Jackson College http://sj-alaska.edu/ 801 Lincoln Street Sitka, Alaska 99835 907-747-2554 lbrown@sj-alaska.edu