Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA): Primary federal law governing food safety and labeling requirements that food brokers must ensure their clients comply with
Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA): Modern food safety legislation that implements preventive controls and safety standards throughout the food supply chain
Federal Trade Commission Act: Regulates unfair or deceptive trade practices in commerce, including food brokerage activities
Fair Labor Standards Act: Federal law establishing wage, overtime, and labor standards that may apply to broker relationships
Robinson-Patman Act: Federal law prohibiting price discrimination between different purchasers of commodities of like grade and quality
Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA): Federal law regulating trading in fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, particularly relevant if dealing with produce
State Food Safety Regulations: State-specific requirements for food handling, storage, and distribution that vary by jurisdiction
State Licensing Requirements: State-specific licensing and permit requirements for operating as a food broker
State Contract Laws: State-specific laws governing contract formation, enforcement, and remedies
Uniform Commercial Code (UCC): Standardized set of laws governing commercial transactions, particularly Articles 2 (Sales) and 9 (Secured Transactions)
State Commission Payment Laws: State-specific regulations governing timing and manner of commission payments
Independent Contractor Classification Rules: Federal and state laws determining whether a broker is properly classified as an independent contractor vs. employee
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs): Industry standards and federal requirements for food production and handling practices
HACCP Requirements: Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point system requirements for food safety management
IRS Independent Contractor Regulations: Federal tax requirements and obligations for independent contractors and their principals
Insurance Requirements: Various insurance obligations including product liability, professional liability, and general commercial liability coverage
