The main selling point of "Fed" is the character of Anita Van Buren. She made a big impression in a good way right from when she was first introduced way back in Season 4 and sixteen seasons on she is one of the longest serving and popular characters of the original 'Law and Order' justifiably. She had plenty of great moments, some truly fine episodes centered around her and S Epatha Merkerson (who doesn't get talked about enough, am guilty of this myself sometimes) played consistently to a high level.
"Fed" is the episode where she has shone the most in a long time, she was consistently a great character throughout the show's run but she had not had material this meaty or moving in goodness knows how long. This reviewer remembers vividly how much emotional impact Van Buren's cancer subplot, that featured a good deal in Season 20, had and "Fed" is one of the most memorable and most emotional examples. It is also a great 'Law and Order' episode in its own right, episodes of the franchise revolving heavily around personal life stories varied a lot but this is a case of this working more than extremely well.
It does start off on an ordinary note and to me the Van Buren subplot is more compelling than the case. Nothing wrong with the case, just that Van Buren's story however was pretty special.
When the episode does get going, it is very powerful and thought provoking that does everything else right. Merkerson first and foremost is absolutely magnificent in an emotionally devastating and Emmy-worthy performance, one of her best of the show. Benjamin Bratt (in a rare post-Season 9 return), in an affecting subplot of his own, and Ernie Hudson (one of the best scenes, the most moving one since Briscoe's departure in the Season 14 finale, involving him and Merkerson) are also beautifully sympathetic. The interplay between her and Bratt are also full of heart and will resonate with anybody who has had cancer or knows someone who has or had it, likewise with MS.
That is not to say though that the case is bad, it is a long way from that. The opposite. It is still very absorbing, twisty and has a wide range of emotions without preachiness or mawkishness, but is just missing the extra something of Van Buren's circumstances.
Production values are slick and are simple without being simplistic. The music is haunting and not too over-emphasised when used. The direction is sympathetic while having momentum and personality. The script is tight and thoughtful, with no signs of rambling or trying to do too much.
Overall, one of the best episodes of Season 20. 9/10.