Federal Regulatory Regime

One of the key features of Untied States food system--indeed, of food systems in most parts of the world--is decentralization. The sheer number of individuals and organizations involved in bringing a food from start to finish is staggering. Each link in the chain of production, distribution, and consumption or what we refer to as the PDC chain creates a risk of food contamination. Notwithstanding the horrific effects of recent food born illness outbreaks, it is somewhat remarkable that outbreaks are so few. This section provides an overview of the basic tools in the federal regulatory kit.