About FSIS

FSIS protects public health by preventing illness from meat, poultry and egg products.

We do this by ensuring these products are safe, wholesome and properly labeled.

FSIS is part of a science-based national system to ensure food safety and food defense. FSIS ensures food safety through the authorities of the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and the Egg Products Inspection Act, as well as humane animal handling through the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act.

Science leading the way in food safety for more than 150 years

Several events in the latter half of 1800s set the stage for developing the earliest standards for food processing.

The Journey to Safe Food

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1862

President Abraham Lincoln signs into law an act of Congress establishing the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

1868

The refrigerated rail car is developed allowing the meat packing industry to operate year-round.

1860s

Import of livestock to the US increases, driving the US livestock and meat processing industry to lobby for meat inspection.

1883

Harvey W. Wiley, M.D. becomes the nation's chief chemist (at what is now USDA) and begins his crusade for the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906.

Every one of our 9,000 team members plays an important part in protecting the public, no matter their location, work environment or duties. I'm proud of the dedication and commitment our team shows, rising to the challenge each and every day.

Paul Kiecker

Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service

Addressing Challenges with Strategic Planning

The Agency’s FY 2023-2026 Strategic Plan will guide our priorities in the coming years. The below goals set forth in our plan align to the USDA’s annual plans and provides a framework for understanding how FSIS fulfills our mission and addresses 21st century public health challenges.

Defining Our Future

View Our Strategic Plan

Prevent Foodborne Illness

Protect public health by preventing contamination in regulated products.

Transform Inspection Strategies, Policies, and Scientific Approaches to Improve Public Health

Adopt innovative approaches to improve safety and humane handling based on science & data.

Achieve Operational Excellence

Maintain a well-trained and engaged workforce, and improve processes and services.

Man stands on production line next to raw meat

FSIS Offices and Program Areas

Committed to one purpose, each FSIS office plays a key role in protecting America's food supply.

See All Offices

Core Values

Each FSIS staff member dedicates themselves to the purpose of ensuring public safety. They exhibit the core values - accountable, collaborative, solutions-oriented, empowered - that contribute to our strength as an agency and to supporting each other in the work we do for the nation.

Learn About Our Core Values