The landscape of food policy in the United States is shaped by a combination of federal, state, and local regulations aimed at ensuring food safety, promoting nutrition, and supporting agricultural production. Key federal laws like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Farm Bill, and Child Nutrition Reauthorization (CNR) set the foundation for nationwide food safety, farm subsidies, and nutrition programs. Meanwhile, state and local policies, such as cottage food laws and food procurement guidelines, offer more localized control. Collectively, these policies influence everything from food production and distribution to consumer access and public health, reflecting a comprehensive approach to building a safer, healthier, and more equitable food system. Check out this summary of key food policy initiatives along with details and links to relevant programs and regulations.

Federal Food Policy

Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)  – The FSMA, signed into law in 2011, represents a significant shift in food safety regulation, focusing on prevention rather than reaction. Key aspects include:

  • Mandatory preventive controls for food facilities
  • Science-based standards for produce safety
  • Enhanced FDA authority for mandatory recalls

Farm Bill – This cornerstone of U.S. food policy, reauthorized every five years, encompasses:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Crop insurance and farmer subsidies
  • Agricultural research and grant programs

Child Nutrition Reauthorization (CNR) – The CNR establishes funding and policy for crucial nutrition programs:

  • National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
  • School Breakfast Program (SBP)
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

State and Local Food Policies

Cottage Food Laws – States are increasingly adopting laws that regulate the sale of homemade foods:

  • California’s detailed regulations on types of producers and foods
  • Wyoming’s Food Freedom Law with a more permissive approach

Food Procurement Policies – Local and state governments can set guidelines for food purchasing:

  • Preferences for local or sustainable farmers
  • Additional requirements for institutions receiving government funding

Cross-Sector Collaboration

Health in All Policies (HiAP) Approach – This approach emphasizes collaboration across sectors to improve public health through food-related policies:

  • Partnerships between health agencies and agriculture departments
  • Collaboration between land use, planning, and transportation departments

Consumer-Oriented Policies – These policies aim to improve food security and nutrition outcomes:

  • Food assistance programs (e.g., food stamps, school feeding)
  • Nutrition information and awareness campaigns
  • Water, sanitation, and hygiene measures

Producer-Oriented Policies – Policies supporting food producers include:

  • Public procurement from farmers at fixed prices
  • Provision of productive inputs to smallholders
  • Natural resource management regulations

Trade-Oriented and Macroeconomic Policies – These policies affect both consumers and producers:

  • Food import tariff changes
  • Export restrictions
  • Implementation of free trade agreements