Which USDA component is primarily responsible for meat and poultry inspection?

• A. Food and Nutrition Service
• B. Agricultural Marketing Service
• C. National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• D. Food Safety and Inspection Service

Answer: (D)

Meat and poultry inspection is regulated by the Food Safety and Inspection Service, the USDA component charged with ensuring the safety and wholesomeness of meat, poultry, and egg products. FSIS conducts inspections at slaughter and processing facilities, enforces HACCP-based safety systems, tests for contaminants, and verifies proper labeling and packaging. This focus on meat and poultry safety and compliance with federal standards is why FSIS is the primary agency responsible. The other agencies have different roles: the Food and Nutrition Service runs nutrition programs like SNAP and school meals; the Agricultural Marketing Service handles marketing, quality grading, and standards for many agricultural products; and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture supports research and extension.