In our paper, we examine how data can be used to evaluate policy options for managing the risks from foodborne microbial pathogens. We begin by reviewing the current policy structure for managing food safety risks, then we discuss the nature of the failure in markets for food safety and the range of options for intervention. Next we discuss how evaluation might proceed for either a standards-based approach that is focused on the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system, or for incentive-based approaches that are focused on providing information. Finally, we provide an overview of the data that are needed for an economic cost-benefit analysis of policy options