The FMSA is really hailed as the biggest change to our nations food production system in well over 40 years. As we have read and studied, the industrial revolution precipitated many changes in our society including food production. During that period, food manufacturers were free to add whatever they liked to our food, additionally, no labeling laws were required to report this to the everyday consumer. Change occurred when women's groups first protested the conditions of the slaughter houses, and the adulteration of processed foods. During that period, food producers used inks, lead and other deleterious ingredients harmful to an unknowing public. In 1885, Dr. Wiley (Chief Chemist for the USDA) began researching the use of untested chemicals, and ingredients used as food preservatives. His early work formed the basis of current food laws and regulations. In 1906, Upton Sinclair published "The Jungle", which graphically described the poor hygienic conditions of meat packing plants. Sinclairs book also led to an outcry from foreign governments demanding food imported from the US to be pure and wholesome. To be continued.....
