However, most countries have been slow in implementing reform in that area. The issues involve special treatment for producers of certain agricultural products, as well as implications for food prices, the environment trade relations, and other areas. The increased exchange of products and commodities worldwide includes food and agricultural products. However, trade in agricultural commodities and foods is also often hindered by protectionism. The concern is that some countries could use health and safety regulation as an excuse to protect their own producers, while on the other side, countries want to preserve their right to reject imports that could cause health and safety problems.
Food safety is a major concern for consumers.
News of outbreaks of foodborne illnesses has heightened consumers' awareness of the issue. The food safety area is broad, ranging from better education of consumers in the proper handling of foods to the discovery of new pathogens that can cause serious health problems. In addition, issues such as pesticide residues and the development of new safety techniques are also of interest. The articles deal with the consumer implications of policy decisions, general background information on food safety, the controversy surrounding pesticide residues, as well as at information on the existence of foodborne illnesses and the introduction of new technologies in helping prevent those outbreaks. Food is labeled for a variety of reasons, such as nutritional information or handling instructions.