Which agency ensures that meat and poultry are safe for consumption?

The agency responsible for ensuring that meat and poultry products are safe, wholesome, and labeled according to standards is the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Specifically, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) conducts inspections of meat and poultry facilities and oversees the safety measures implemented throughout the production process.

This role is crucial because meat and poultry can pose significant health risks if they are contaminated with pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli. The USDA establishes strict regulations that meat and poultry producers must follow to prevent these risks, including sanitary processing conditions and proper labeling of products.

In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily regulates other food products, while the Department of Health and Human Services has broader health oversight responsibilities but does not focus specifically on meat and poultry safety. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, though part of the USDA, is more concerned with protecting animal and plant health rather than directly overseeing food safety in meat and poultry products. Thus, the USDA plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health regarding meat and poultry consumption.