What organization sets the standards for food safety regulations in the United States?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the organization responsible for setting standards for food safety regulations in the United States. This agency plays a critical role in ensuring that food products are safe for consumption, properly labeled, and free from harmful substances. The FDA oversees a wide range of categories, including food additives, dietary supplements, and bottled water, and enforces regulations that impact various stages of food production and processing.

In addition to the FDA, other agencies also play important roles in food safety. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on public health and monitors foodborne illness outbreaks, while the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) handles the safety of meat, poultry, and certain egg products. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primarily regulates pesticides and their safe use in food production but does not set comprehensive food safety standards. Thus, while all these organizations contribute to food safety in their specific areas, the FDA is the primary agency for establishing and enforcing food safety regulations.