This chapter begins a seven-part analysis introducing food law and regulation
in the USA. It looks at the basic structure and function of the US
government, including key concepts of federalism and the structure of judicial
opinions. The chapter distinguishes the role of the USDA and FDA
through statutory definitions, responsibilities, and the legislative happenstance
that resulted in a two-agency-model. Special emphasis is placed on
defining “food” and the judicially created concept of “intended use.” The
chapter ends with a comparative look at food regulatory bodies around
the world.