Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

Which one of the following agencies is responsible for inspecting meat and poultry products?

1. American Public Health Association (APHA)

2. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

4. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The correct answer is: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for inspecting meat and poultry products to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. This agency plays a crucial role in protecting public health by overseeing the production, processing, and labeling of these products. The USDA conducts inspections at various points in the meat and poultry supply chain, from processing plants to retail outlets, to ensure that the food is safe for consumption. The USDA enforces regulations under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act, which mandate thorough inspections of facilities and products. These regulations are designed to prevent adulteration and misbranding of meat and poultry, ensuring that consumers receive safe and accurately labeled food products. In contrast, other agencies listed, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mainly focus on environmental protection, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is tasked with ensuring workplace safety. The American Public Health Association (APHA) serves as a professional organization advocating for public health, but it does not perform inspections of food products.