USDA Investigators: Roles and Responsibilities

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a federal agency responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food. Within the USDA, investigators play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with federal regulations and maintaining the integrity of the nation’s food supply and agricultural practices.

Overview of USDA Investigators

USDA investigators are tasked with enforcing laws and regulations that fall under the jurisdiction of the department. They work in various divisions, including the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and the Office of Inspector General (OIG).

What does an USDA investigator do?

Investigators at the USDA conduct inspections, audits, and investigations into potential violations of federal laws and regulations. Their duties may include:

Inspecting food processing plants and agricultural facilities
Investigating cases of foodborne illness outbreaks
Ensuring compliance with animal welfare and plant health standards
Auditing financial records and operations of USDA programs
Collecting evidence and preparing reports for enforcement actions

USDA investigators may also collaborate with other federal, state, and local agencies to address complex cases involving food safety, fraud, or biosecurity threats.

USDA Oversight and Accountability

The USDA is subject to oversight by both internal and external entities to ensure transparency and accountability in its operations.

Who investigates USDA?

The USDA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) is the primary body responsible for investigating allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement within the department. Additionally, Congressional committees and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) may conduct investigations or audits of USDA programs and activities.