ABSTRACT

An overview of the legislative process and history of food laws in the United States (U.S.) is important to understanding the complex structure of today’s food safety systems in the U.S. This chapter will discuss the legislative process within the U.S., provide a brief history of food laws and regulations, and examine the regulatory agencies that oversee and enforce existing food laws. Finally, trade and industry associations associated with food safety research and developing and maintaining industry food safety standards are discussed.