Which agency tests food produced in the United States and imported foods for compliance with residue limits?

• A. Environmental Protection Agency
• B. Food and Drug Administration
• C. United States Department of Agriculture
• D. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Answer: (B)

Testing for pesticide residues in foods produced in the United States and in imported foods is done by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA conducts surveillance and samples a wide range of foods, analyzing them to ensure residue levels stay within the tolerances set by the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA determines the legal limits for pesticide residues, but it’s the FDA that actually checks foods for compliance, including inspections of imported products at ports of entry. If residues exceed the allowable levels, the FDA can detain, seize, or take other enforcement actions. The other agencies have different roles: EPA sets the limits, USDA handles certain foods like meat and poultry, and the CDC is focused on public health surveillance rather than residue testing.