Which agency is responsible for regulating food safety in the United States?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary agency responsible for regulating food safety in the United States. The FDA oversees the safety of the nation’s food supply, including monitoring food products, ensuring proper labeling, and establishing safety standards to protect public health. This encompasses a wide range of food items, including both processed foods and dietary supplements.

The FDA's role includes inspecting food production facilities, conducting food safety research, and responding to foodborne illness outbreaks to mitigate risks to consumers. By enforcing regulations that ensure food is safe, sanitary, and labeled honestly, the FDA plays a crucial role in preventing foodborne illnesses and protecting overall public health.

While the USDA also plays a significant role in food safety, particularly regarding meat, poultry, and certain egg products, the FDA has a broader scope over all other food products. The EPA focuses on environmental protection and does not primarily regulate food safety, and the CDC, while it plays a vital role in tracking foodborne illnesses and providing guidance, is not a regulatory agency.