The evolution of Federal water pollution control legislation and the objectives and provisions of current legislation relevant to food processing are explained. Federal strategy concerning "point source" water pollution has shifted from sponsoring grant-in-aid programs and self-denial of enforcement powers to establishing effluent limitations and discharge permits. Under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, effluents discharged into navigable waters must meet "best practicable" standards by July 1, 1977, and "best available" standards by July 1, 1983.