3. Regulations in the United States

3.1 Authorized U.S. federal agency: the FDA

Regulations concerning materials in contact with food are under the control of the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It reports to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

The FDA is the federal government agency responsible for enforcing laws and developing regulations for industry and the public. Its role is to prevent problems that could threaten public health, and to monitor hygiene. With regard to food hygiene, it is particularly concerned with any factor that may affect the composition of foodstuffs.

The FDA's missions are carried out by the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, within which the Food and Color Additives Division is responsible for regulating materials...