ACE 306: Food Law
Explores legal issues related to food from a consumer’s perspective. Issues related to food labels that are regulatory (e.g., mandated by government) and voluntary (e.g., placed on packages by firms to enhance marketing) are discussed along with various lawsuits challenging the labels. Recent examples of label disputes include use of the term “natural” and “non-GMO.” Legal requirements related to food safety and personal injury law provide another opportunity to explore law through the lens of the food system. Other topics include the First Amendment (labels, restaurant reviews); intellectual property (trade secrets, trademarks); local food and the use of geographic indicators; and animal welfare issues in food production.
Prerequisites (Must be complete BEFORE taking this course):
None!
Instructor Teaching the Course:
This course is taught by the instructor below. You may click on their name to learn more about them. Teaching schedules vary by semester. Please check the Course Explorer for the most up-to-date information about the sections they will teach.
A. Bryan Endres
View the Course Explorer:
See when the course is offered as well as section details here: https://courses.illinois.edu/schedule/terms/ACE/306
Fall 2018 Restrictions
None!
Additional Course Information
Read more about what Dr. Endres has to say about ACE 306!
Is this class discussion-based or lecture-based? How would you describe your teaching style?
A discussion-based class focused on the assigned readings for each day. Class discussion is encouraged and ideas are challenged to highlight and create understanding of the legal issues and rules involved in the particular topic.
How are students evaluated (e.g. multiple choice or essay tests, papers, etc.)?
A weekly on-line quiz comprises approximately 30% of the grade for the course, along with class participation (5%), a group research project (5%), and an on-line midterm (25%) and final exam (35%) consisting of multiple choice, short answer and essay questions. Specific details are provided in the course syllabus.
What careers does this course help prepare students to pursue?
Careers requiring analytical reasoning and for careers with a policy or advocacy component.
What courses can students take to prepare for this material?
This is an introductory course, but an introduction to law, policy or the political system course would be helpful, but not necessary.
In what ways does this course prepare students to move through the program and/or into the work force?
Fosters analytical thinking and the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely both in writing and orally.
What is your background in Agricultural and Consumer Economics?
Practiced law for 3 years (Washington, D.C. and Phoenix, AZ) with a focus on commercial litigation and intellectual property before joining the faculty at Illinois. Former Chair of the Agricultural Law Section Council of the Illinois State Bar Association; Vice Chair, Agricultural Management Section of the American Bar Association; and Board of Directors of the American Agricultural Law Association. Consulted with various national and international projects relating to biotechnology regulation and liability; sustainable agriculture standards; and food production contracts.
What is your attendance policy?
Attendance and prior reading of the assigned materials is expected and factors into the class participation component of the course grade.
