Which organization conducts inspections of retail food establishments?

The correct answer is local health departments because they are the primary entities responsible for conducting inspections of retail food establishments, including restaurants, grocery stores, and food processing sites. These inspections help to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal food safety regulations, assessing factors such as sanitation practices, food handling procedures, and proper storage temperatures to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Local health departments often have trained inspectors who evaluate facilities regularly to maintain public health standards. Their oversight is crucial in each jurisdiction to respond to specific community health needs and risks associated with food handling.

While the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) focuses on the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees broader food safety initiatives and regulations but typically does not conduct on-site retail inspections. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is involved more with regulations concerning food production and safety related to pesticides and water quality rather than directly inspecting food establishments. Therefore, local health departments are the key players in ensuring that retail food establishments adhere to safe food practices.