Book excerpt: Regulatory Foundations for the Food Protection Professional is a comprehensive guide for the entry-level food protection professional (FPP) working in either the public or private sector. The book can also serve as a foundation for students in academic programs preparing for a career in food protection. Additionally, as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) is implemented, this book will provide valuable information for countries wishing to export foods and food ingredients to the U.S. and comply with U.S. food safety regulations. The book is based on the Entry-Level component of the National Curriculum Framework for regulators, created by the International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) located in Battle Creek, Michigan. The Entry-Level component of the National Curriculum Framework contains more than twenty content areas, including Epidemiology, Microbiology, Labeling, Food Defense Awareness, Program Standards, Environmental Health and Safety, Sampling, and Allergens. Each chapter is divided into specific learning objectives aimed at equipping the entry-level FPP with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully perform his or her job, whether in the public or private sector, and whether in food safety or food defense. Established in 2009, IFPTI is improving public health by building competency-based training and certification systems, and cultivating leadership for the food protection community worldwide. Our mission is to enhance public health by improving the protection of the world's food supply through training, certification, thought leadership, and technology. See more at www.ifpti.org.