FDA Inspection Shortfalls Exposed | Tulsa News

A deadly cyclospora outbreak is exposing deep flaws in the FDA’s ability to inspect foreign food suppliers—inspections have plummeted 35% since 2019, fueled by retirements, staffing cuts, and reorganization. Even before the pandemic, the agency missed inspection targets, and experts warn fewer inspections are coming. While border checks and sampling offer some protection, a retracted lettuce test proves those methods aren’t enough. Response delays in Mexico highlight how slow the system is for fresh produce. The FDA is now weighing how many inspections are truly needed, comparing foreign oversight to domestic standards, and urgently seeking ways to recruit and retain inspectors for a job that demands constant travel and is prone to high turnover. The stakes? Keeping every bite of imported food safe. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1de857824c8751e6