The 20th Century

Throughout the twentieth century numerous consolidating and other statutes often dealing with specific foods were passed. Science plays a bigger role in the food industry. The focus moves to additives, preservers and improvers, and bacteriological advances in the area of food poisoning. Food and Drugs Act 1938 makes food poisoning notifiable across the country. In 1974 the UK joins the EEC. The Food Safety Act 1990 and food scares of the 1990s, including BSE. Food Standards Agency replaces MAFF.