Why is the inspection of imported meat and poultry products necessary?

The necessity of inspecting imported meat and poultry products primarily stems from the need to ensure that these products comply with U.S. standards of safety. The USDA has established strict guidelines and regulations governing the safety, quality, and labeling of meat and poultry to protect public health. Inspection helps to verify that imported products have been processed in facilities that adhere to these standards, thus minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensuring that consumers receive safe and wholesome food.

While factors like freshness, cost-effectiveness, and proper packaging are also important considerations in the food supply chain, they do not directly address the critical issue of food safety compliance. The inspection process is fundamentally focused on health protection rather than economic or aesthetic aspects, making adherence to safety standards the paramount concern.