Which federal agency regulates beef safety in the United States?

The regulation of beef safety in the United States falls under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA is responsible for ensuring that meat, poultry, and egg products are safely handled and produced. It oversees the inspection of meat processing facilities, which includes checking for compliance with safety standards and regulations designed to protect public health.

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is specifically tasked with inspecting beef products to ensure they meet safety standards before they enter the market. This agency also conducts risk assessments and develops food safety guidelines to help prevent foodborne illnesses, ensuring that consumers can safely enjoy beef and other meat products.

Other federal agencies have distinct roles. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily regulates food products not under the USDA’s jurisdiction, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulations concerning pesticides. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) oversees health-related initiatives but does not specifically handle food safety regulations for beef. Thus, the USDA’s dedicated focus and expertise in meat safety make it the correct authority for beef regulation.