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Chapter 1 Food Science: An Old but New Subject
The USDA enforces food safety laws governing domestic and
imported raw and processed meat and poultry products and processed
egg products. The agency also inspects processing plants and mandates
a system to ensure the safety of the meat and poultry industries.
See 1-5. The USDA is responsible for researching the nutritional needs
of Americans and developing science-based dietary guidance.
Food Labeling
For some functions, both the FDA and the USDA share responsi-
bilities. One such function is food labeling. Determining what food
labels must show and say is a continual process that involves input
from consumers, producers, health professionals, and all other inter-
ested parties. (For a summary of current food labeling requirements,
refer to Appendix A, “Information Required on Food Labels.”)
Food companies are responsible for complying with food labeling
laws and keeping abreast of all changes. Food manufacturers that
fail to follow government regulations may receive large fi nes. They
may also face expensive recalls of food products or forced closings
of production plants.
©Keith Weller/USDA
1-5 USDA inspectors evaluate poultry for wholesomeness.