Who regulates agriculture?

To ensure health and safety among agricultural practices, there are various regulatory bodies that each regulate different aspects of the industry, working to keep consumers safe and control environmental impact.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is primarily responsible for regulating agriculture in the US, being divided into various sectors each having specific responsibilities. They aim to support farmers and promote agricultural production while ensuring the quality of the products to keep consumers safe. To ensure fair market practices, the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) manages the labeling and certification of agricultural products, regulating the grouping of products during the selling stage.

Different categories of food require differing levels of regulation. For meat and poultry, The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) adds a layer of specialized regulation and safeguards against animal and plant diseases. For fruits, vegetables, dairy, and seafood, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets regulations for food labeling and additives, conducting inspections of food processing facilities to ensure they remain compliant.

To regulate agriculture’s impact on the environment, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces environmental standards for farming practices. They work closely with farmers to protect water, air, and soil quality, implementing conservation practices that can help minimize the impact of agricultural activity. Reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers and better disposing of any chemicals used, not only helps to prevent pollution but also goes a long way to improve the health of consumers and their food quality.