The Hang-Up with Haccp: The Resistance to Translating Science into Food Safety Law

Food and Drug Law Journal, Vol. 58, pp. 565-594, 2003

31 Pages Posted: 29 Aug 2005

See all articles by Neal D. Fortin

Neal D. Fortin

Institute for Food Laws & Regulations, Michigan State University

Abstract

Foodborne illness strikes millions every year and thousands die. HACCP could prevent much of that illness; however, it remains underutilized. HACCP's slow adoption correlates with imperfect information on the safety of food both before and after purchase. Consequently, the market is inefficient at rewarding firms that implement improved food safety measures and rewards firms that externalize certain food safety risks. This market inefficiency creates an underproduction of the level of food safety that consumers desire. The author proposes applying this understanding of market inefficiency to construct a food safety system that adjusts for the current imbalance.

Keywords: HACCP, food safety, food law, science and law

Suggested Citation

Fortin, Neal D., The Hang-Up with Haccp: The Resistance to Translating Science into Food Safety Law. Food and Drug Law Journal, Vol. 58, pp. 565-594, 2003, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=785916

Neal D. Fortin (Contact Author)

Institute for Food Laws & Regulations, Michigan State University ( email )

College of Agriculture and Natural Resourses
Anthony Hall, Room 3383
East Lansing, MI 48824
United States
(517) 355-8295 (Phone)
517) 432-1492 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://www.iflr.msu.edu

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