Which organization is responsible for public health in the United States, including food safety?

The organization primarily responsible for public health in the United States, particularly as it relates to food safety, is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA plays a critical role in regulating food safety standards, ensuring that food products are safe, sanitary, and labeled properly before they reach consumers. This includes overseeing the safety of both domestic and imported foods, as well as regulating food additives and dietary supplements.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does contribute to public health efforts and investigates outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, its primary focus is on disease prevention and health promotion rather than direct regulation of food safety. The CDC often collaborates with the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on matters of food-related health issues, but it does not have the same regulatory authority over food safety as the FDA.

The USDA also has significant responsibilities regarding food safety, particularly in the processing and inspection of meat, poultry, and certain egg products. However, it does not encompass the entire food system, as the FDA does.

The FBI, on the other hand, does not have any jurisdiction or responsibilities related to food safety or public health in this context.

Understanding the specific roles of these organizations helps clarify how food safety is managed at