FDA's Foreign Food Inspections Fall Dramatically

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted fewer than 1,000 foreign food safety inspections in 2025, significantly under the nearly 20,000 mandated by federal law. This marks a decade of the FDA failing to meet its inspection targets, a situation worsened by insufficient congressional funding and staffing shortages. Inspection rates have declined by 29% since 2024, reaching their lowest point in years outside the pandemic.

Violations have been found in about one-third of foreign inspections over the last decade, highlighting potential risks from imported food. The FDA acknowledges the inspection target is unrealistic but has not sought revision. The agency states it is working to expand foreign staffing and employs a risk-based model for inspections, alongside other screening methods.

Experts emphasize that while companies bear primary responsibility for food safety, regulatory oversight is critical. Meeting the full inspection mandate would require substantial budget increases, currently exceeding 10% of the FDA's total budget. Staffing challenges persist, with a need for more inspectors and support staff to ensure adequate oversight of foreign food producers.