In 1902, the U.S. Congress appropriated $5,000 to the Bureau of Chemistry (Bureau) to study chemical preservatives and colors and their effects on digestion and health. Dr. Harvey W. Wiley was appointed chief chemist at the Bureau.

Dr. Wiley’s studies drew widespread attention to the problem of food adulteration. Public support for passage of a federal food and drug law grew with each death reported due to food contamination.