The accelerated rise in food prices - especially those on those of animal origin - from late 1972 to the present time, has thrust to the forefront the question of farm price controls. But opinions differ widely on whether direct price controls at the farm level would be successful, desirable, or practical to administer. In the present situation, the question also involves the issue of whether or not price controls at the farm level are necessary or justified by the present or prospective circumstances. This is especially relevant if the upward movement of key farm prices is likely to be of relatively short duration, and the rise in prices consumers pay for foods can be halted by other means.