The Jungle of the Meatpacking Industry: How Congressional Debate Prompted Increased Federal Regulation
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Shan Eric
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In response to widespread customer demand for reform, the congressional battle over America’s food and drug industries, specifically the meatpacking industry, was resolved with the passing of the Federal Meat Inspection Act of 1906 and the broader Pure Food and Drug Act (1906). The debate, spurred on by public outrage and the diplomatic exchanges that collectively ensued, became the determining factor in pacifying Congress and the businesses within the food industry. With roots in preliminary investigations and muckraking journalism intending to expose corruption, conflicting proposals made the enactment of this act a legislative hallmark of compromise. Debate was the foundation for seeing the act to fruition, leaving behind a legacy of success in improved public health as well as shortcomings that would be addressed in future amendments.
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Authors
Shan Eric
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References:
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