Product safety

The Food and Drug Administration intends to expand its focus to more aggressively assess food and drugs produced in other countries but consumed in the United States.

"FDA can no longer simply be a gatekeeper assessing the benefits and risks of products brought before us," Commissioner Andrew C. von Eschenbach said in a speech to the National Press Club Friday.

Mr. Von Eschenbach wants Congress to pass 10 reforms that will help the agency with its new international approach. The idea is to better protect Americans from unsafe food, drugs and medical equipment produced abroad.

China has sent several tainted products to the United States in recent years, and the FDA wants to establish an office there. Other offices are planned in Europe, India, Latin America and the Middle East.

This sounds like a good idea. If a more proactive approach internationally will benefit American consumers, Congress should agree with the agency's plans.