Advanced Introduction to International Food Law is the latest in the Elgar Advanced Introductions series. Clocking in at six chapters and only 137 pages, it provides an excellent overview of a complicated subject.
The introductory chapter provides a brief history of international food law—defining basic concepts, such as “transnational law,” and delving into what is characterized as “food.” Fortin emphasizes the importance of accounting for differences in measurements, terminology, and even spelling (flavor vs. flavour) when researching international food laws. He also notes the variation in safety issues in different geographic areas.
Chapter 2 explains the history and roles of the various agencies participating in food safety and standards. It can be hard to keep the abbreviations for the various agencies straight. The list of abbreviations at the very beginning of the book is a useful tool. Several diagrams and tables in the chapter are particularly helpful in illustrating the connections between these different bodies. Chapter 2 also includes a brief overview of international trade agreements.
Chapters 3 and 4 expand on this brief overview. Chapter 3 details the rules of international trade and delves into the history and functions of the WTO. Chapter 4 continues with a deeper discussion of WTO agreements and dispute settlements. As in Chapter 2, a diagram provides a great explanation of the WTO panel process.
The next chapter is the longest, which makes sense since it delves into the complexity of comparative food law. While comparing US and EU food policies, the author urges us to avoid stereotypical assumptions, such as the European Union is more precautionary than the United States. There are concrete suggestions, such as “draw explicit comparisons” and “take account of functional equivalence.” As in the introductory chapter, Fortin stresses the need to consider differences in terminology. He also reminds us to “have a healthy skepticism” regarding these comparisons and to examine the political constructions in various nations and how these affect food laws.
Overall, this book is a detailed introduction to international food law, without being overwhelming. It would be immensely helpful for a reader ready to dip their toes into this subject.
