Which organization regulates food safety in the United States?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary organization responsible for regulating food safety in the United States. It is tasked with ensuring that the nation's food supply is safe, sanitary, and labeled according to federal regulations. The FDA develops and enforces regulations that govern the production, processing, and distribution of food products, overseeing everything from foodborne illness prevention to food additives. This agency plays a crucial role in protecting public health by establishing standards that food establishments must follow to avoid contamination and ensure the safety of food served to consumers.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does have an important role, particularly in enforcing regulations related to pesticides and environmental factors affecting food safety, its focus is not directly on food safety regulation. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) also plays a vital role, but it is predominantly focused on the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily concentrates on disease prevention and public health measures, including tracking foodborne illnesses rather than directly regulating food safety. Hence, the FDA is the key federal agency overseeing food safety in the U.S.