Abstract

Food manufacturing, distribution, and consumption have a significant influence on equity, sustainability of the environment, and public health. Food regulations control these factors, but there are substantial variations in how European countries and America balance safety, innovation, and economic interests. With a focus on finding flaws in the American regulatory system, this thesis compares the rules and regulations overseeing food production in the US and Europe. It examines how these inequalities fuel environmental deterioration, economic inequality, and public health issues. For example, dangerous chemicals like titanium dioxide, potassium bromate, and Red Dye 40 have been restricted in the European Union because of safety concerns. Yet, they are all widely used in the American food supply, raising the issue of the regulatory priorities in America. The benefits of European standards, including those set by the Codex Alimentarius and the EU's proactive initiatives that put consumer safety and environmental sustainability first, are also examined in the thesis. This report aims to provide a path for changing the U.S. regulatory system by identifying practical improvements such as excellent farm-level controls, stringent enforcement measures, comprehensive additive ingredient standards, alignment with international standards, and more labeling transparency. To bring the United States into accordance with global best practices and guarantee a safer, healthier, and more equitable food system for coming generations, this work ultimately promotes a more unified and effective regulatory framework that prioritizes public health, environmental stewardship, and economic justice.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 12-1-2024

Mentor

Robert Mitchell

Mentor Department Affiliation

Psychology

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

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