Identifying Constraints, Mechanisms, and Resources in Harmonized International Food Safety System between the Asia Pacific Region and U.S

Globalization and free trade have opened up world food market among countries at different stages of development. A harmonized international food safety system is very important for countries to build capacity and address food safety problems from a global perspective. This paper has developed a fundamental understanding of the key constraints to a harmonized food system, the mechanisms used to solve food safety problems, and the resources available based on Asia Pacific region and U.S comparison from such views as food safety culture and demographics, food safety research, food safety system and international trade, food safety outreach, education and training. A roadmap is proposed to develop and institute harmonized international food safety mechanism among developed and developing countries. Findings from this paper will assist in developing public policy; identify quality control issues, developing training needs and program implementation for government, firms and consumers.