Sanitation Certification Practice Test

Which food safety regulation agency is responsible for regulating food transportation across state lines?

1. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

3. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

4. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The correct answer is: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating food transportation across state lines primarily because it oversees the safety of food products that fall under its jurisdiction. This includes most foods except for meat, poultry, and certain processed egg products, which are regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The FDA ensures that food products meet safety standards during transport to prevent contamination and maintain quality. The regulation of food transportation is crucial, as it helps maintain the integrity of the food supply chain and protects public health by ensuring that food does not become unsafe or unsanitary during transit. The agency enforces the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, which grants it authority over food safety, including the conditions under which food may be transported across state lines. The other agencies mentioned have different areas of responsibility. The USDA focuses on the inspection and regulation of meat, poultry, and dairy products. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primarily deals with environmental protection and regulations concerning chemical substances, while the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is concerned with consumer protection and antitrust laws rather than food safety. This distinction clarifies the specific roles these agencies play in the broader context of food safety and regulations.