Which federal agency regulates food safety in the United States?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the correct answer because it is the federal agency primarily responsible for overseeing food safety in the United States. The FDA establishes and enforces regulations related to food products, including labeling, manufacturing practices, and food additives, to ensure that the food supply is safe and accurately represented to consumers. The agency also conducts inspections, oversees foodborne illness outbreaks, and provides guidance on safe food handling practices.

While the other agencies mentioned play important roles in public health and environmental safety, their functions differ significantly from the FDA. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on disease prevention and control, including tracking foodborne illnesses, but it does not regulate food safety standards. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for setting standards relating to pesticides and environmental contaminants, but it does not govern food safety directly. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products, while the FDA regulates other food items, including dairy products, seafood, and produce. Thus, the FDA's broad regulatory authority across a wide range of food products solidifies its role as the main agency for food safety.