This chapter begins a seven-part analysis introducing food law and regulation in the USA. It looks at the basic structure and function of the US government, including key concepts of federalism and the structure of judicial opinions. The chapter distinguishes the role of the USDA and FDA through statutory definitions, responsibilities, and the legislative happenstance that resulted in a two-agency-model. Special emphasis is placed on defining “food” and the judicially created concept of “intended use.” The chapter ends with a comparative look at food regulatory bodies around the world.