What is the role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in food safety?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a vital role in food safety by regulating food products and establishing safety standards to ensure public health. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including setting guidelines for food manufacturing, processing, distribution, and labeling. The FDA works to prevent foodborne illnesses by creating standards that food producers must follow to protect consumers from contamination and unsafe practices.

Additionally, the FDA conducts research and risk assessments to inform these standards and ensure they are based on the latest scientific data. The agency collaborates with state and local governments to implement food safety initiatives effectively, fostering a comprehensive approach to public health. Its regulatory authority spans both domestic and imported foods, emphasizing its crucial role in the overall safety of the nation's food supply.