The food and agriculture industry is one of the most diverse business sectors in the economy, as well as one of the most heavily regulated, both domestically and internationally. Increasing concerns about threats to food safety—whether from known organic diseases and extending to agricultural terrorism—have increased calls for government oversight of food production and marketing. Products ranging from basic farm products to genetically engineered whole foods to nutritional food supplements all face specific and complex regulatory schemes to ensure public safety.

Patton Boggs represents numerous domestic and foreign food companies and major trade associations in marketing both traditional and novel foodstuffs, as well as biotechnology products and dietary supplements. Our attorneys are prepared to deal with the dozens of agencies that oversee this industry, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Federal Trade commission (FTC), the consumer product Safety commission (CPSC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Our professionals are also well equipped to address international issues arising from such entities as the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Service, the European Food Safety Authority of the European Union, the World Trade Organization, and others.