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FDA Considering Shifting Routine Food Safety Inspections to States
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is exploring a plan to transition most routine food safety inspections to state and local authorities, according to sources within the federal health sector. While the plans are still under development and may require congressional funding, the potential shift has sparked both interest and concern.
The FDA has emphasized its commitment to maintaining operations and critical inspections during this potential reorganization. The agency already collaborates with 43 states and Puerto Rico on some routine inspections, and some officials see this expansion as a logical next step. Proponents argue that it would avoid redundant efforts and allow the FDA to concentrate on higher-risk domestic inspections and crucial oversight of foreign food facilities.
Currently, state inspections often focus on lower-risk facilities, accounting for about a third of routine food safety inspections. The FDA retains responsibility for the safety of a large portion of the U.S. food supply, including packaged goods, seafood, eggs, and produce.
Certain high-risk inspections, such as those of infant formula manufacturers, would likely remain under FDA jurisdiction. It remains unclear how the plan would impact states without existing FDA inspection contracts.
The potential shift has been under consideration since around 2010, following the passage of major food safety legislation. Supporters draw parallels to the FDA’s Grade A Milk Safety Program, which utilizes a state-led, federally overseen model, and the agency’s produce farm inspection program, which relies heavily on state agriculture departments. They argue that state inspections can be cost-effective while meeting federal standards.
However, critics express concerns about the transition’s potential impact on food safety. While acknowledging the theoretical benefits of increased state involvement, they emphasize the need for careful planning and adequate resources.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential for a backlog of overseas inspections and the impact of recent FDA staff reductions. A successful transition would require substantial investment and a clear plan to ensure consistent, high-quality inspections across all states.