Technological, social, economic, and institutional forces are causing changes
in U.S. food processing industries at an accelerating pace, turning what was once
considered to be among the more static sectors in the American economy into
one of the most dynamic. New challenges and opportunities face those who
manage firms in these industries, those who provide raw products and other
inputs and services, and those who serve in public roles concerned primarily with
the protection of human health and general welfare. The purpose of this volume
is to improve understanding of the complexities and ambiance of these indus￾tries. Students preparing for careers, researchers, and industry participants who
study these firms and industries and the various approaches to solving their
economic and management problems will benefit from the information in this
volume and from its approach to presenting the dynamics of the food processing
industries.