The analyses of foods pose significant challenges to analysts due to the complex nature of the matrix, high sample variability and chemistries associated with food production and processing. Contamination of foods can occur from exposure to agrochemicals, environmental contaminants, pesticides, carcinogens, introduction of process induced contaminants, and economic adulteration. Increased government regulations and consumer awareness have resulted in a need for better analytical methods for food analysis. In addition, recent changes in legislation have shifted the impetus of food analysis research from response to prevention. This symposium will provide a forum for the discussion current topics and analytical challenges with respect to food safety. Possible topics include overviews and case studies from federal regulatory agencies, advances in multi-analyte methods, rapid sample preparation methodology, non-targeted analysis, economic adulteration, food authentication and analysis of mycotoxins.