National Food Control Systems: A Review

Abstract

This article reviews literature on national food control systems (NFCS). The major objectives of NFCS, their main components, and current issues relating to NFCS are discussed. Common problem areas and the actions taken by countries to improve their system are analysed. The review shows that elements of NFCS suffer from certain limitations, such as obsolete food laws, duplication of work, lack of resources, and poor organisation, which make the system ineffective. NFCS have been established to various extents in both developed and developing countries; however, most countries have not used management techniques in developing and implementing their food control programme. Since NFCS face a number of challenges, it is important for both developed and developing countries to strengthen their food control systems to meet these challenges.