Which stepwise experimental program would best support a company's GRAS determination for a novel sweetener (choose the most complete sequence)?

• A. Compile published independent animal/toxicology studies, develop validated analytical detection methods for the compound in foods, assemble expert consensus reviews, and publish the findings for transparency — aligns with GRAS criteria and addresses detection and safety concerns
• B. Submit no safety data but provide marketing studies showing that consumers prefer the taste and therefore implicitly accept the additive, which the FDA treats as sufficient evidence for GRAS
• C. Only perform analytical testing to show the compound can be measured in foods and skip toxicology because detectability automatically proves safety under GRAS
• D. Begin immediate mass production and marketing under a self-affirmed GRAS claim and rely on consumer feedback to detect any safety signals because historical use need not be documented

Answer: (A)