Federal economic and regulatory policies and programs affect food choices by influencing the supply and demand for food as well as by giving food to needy consumers. Food assistance programs aim to improve the diets of the poor. Farm commodity programs indirectly affect nutrient consumption by influencing the availability or price of food. Still other policies control information about food, whether through advertising, research, or public education, thus influencing consumers' perceptions about food and their nutrition. This report presents an overview of some of the Federal programs that affect food choices and hence nutrition, including food and income assistance, farm commodity programs, and food safety and quality regulations.