FDA Considers Delegating Routine Food Inspections to State Authorities

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating a significant shift in its food safety inspection process by potentially transferring routine inspections to state and local agencies. According to multiple federal health officials, this change is still under consideration and has not yet been finalized, as it requires approval and funding from Congress. The primary motivation behind this proposal is to allocate FDA resources more effectively, focusing on higher-risk inspections and international oversight, such as foreign food facilities and infant formula manufacturing.

Currently, the FDA handles certain inspections directly, but it also contracts with 43 states and Puerto Rico to carry out routine food safety checks, which constitute roughly one-third of all inspections in recent years. Some critics and former officials argue that delegating inspections to states could be more cost-effective and efficient, especially since many states already conduct inspections through their own agencies and meet federal standards.

Despite assurances from the FDA that routine inspections will continue, some questions remain about what will happen in states without existing inspection contracts, such as Hawaii and Delaware. Additionally, the agency will retain oversight of high-risk food facilities, including those manufacturing infant formula or involved in international trade.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address delays in overseas inspections and manage the agency’s workload amid staffing reductions and increased demands across medical and food safety domains. Experts note that relying on state agencies could improve the speed and scope of inspections, but caution that implementing such a system requires careful planning and investment to ensure safety standards are upheld.

The proposed changes echo models used in other health oversight areas, like hospital and nursing home inspections, that demonstrate successful state-federal collaboration. However, critics warn that rushing into such a transition without adequate resources could undermine food safety efforts and leave gaps in protection against foodborne illnesses. As discussions continue, the FDA emphasizes its commitment to maintaining effective inspection programs to protect public health.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-fda-shift-routine-food-states.html