Abstract:

The management of food inspection agencies in western countries is characterized by diversification of subjects,
clear definition of the responsibility of each division and emphasis on macro-regulation by the government. The operation
of the agencies highlights legalization, focuses on the fairness of laws, regulations and standards, and ensures that there
are laws to abide by and they are strictly enforced. All of these characteristics mentioned above can provide a reference
for the management and operation of China’s food inspection agencies. According to the current food inspection problems
in China, such as fragmental regulation, standards gaps, and lack of detection techniques and enforcement, we propose
some suggestions as follows: 1) promoting institutional reform comprehensively and exploring the establishment of food
inspection agencies suitable for China’s national situation; 2) improving the food inspection system and emphasizing the
effectiveness of institutional set-up and operation; and 3) completing the food laws and standards to ensure that there are
laws to abide by and that they are strictly enforced.

Key words: food inspection, food supervision, institutional settings