SIR --- You highlighted the case of a local yogurt-maker's struggles
in California to make a point about "red tape", but you did not show
much of an understanding of government's responsibility for food
safety ("Beware of the yogurt", May 21st). My department met more than
two months ago with the yogurt-maker you mentioned and has sought to
continue the dialogue. We are also looking at potential legislative
solutions. If there is a way to bring the producers of White Moustache
yogurt into compliance, the department will try to make it happen.

We are committed to supporting innovation among the growing number of
artisan food producers. But illegally produced foods, regardless of
the craftsmanship they may embody, present a significant risk of
food-borne illnesses, a risk that would be much greater without
safeguards.

Food producers and consumers alike rely on government to give the
safety stamp of approval. The deaths of several dozen people in the
Los Angeles area in 1985 because of unpasteurised milk used by a
cheese manufacturer is a grim reminder why.

Karen Ross
Secretary of California Department of Food and Agriculture
Sacramento