Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I get information on food labeling?

• USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) regulates the labeling of meat and poultry. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for all other foods. Information on labeling is available from FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Food Labeling and Nutrition webpage. Or check out the FDA's Nutrition Facts Label webpage, or the "Make Your Calories Count" interactive learning program, both from the FDA.

Years ago I received information from USDA on canning fruits and vegetables and would like to know how to get updated information.

• The extensive USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning is online. It contains detailed information on canning fruits, vegetables, poultry, red meats, and seafood.

How can I avoid foodborne illness and food poisoning?

• The four most important points to remember are:
  1. Wash your hands frequently
  2. Cook to proper temperatures
  3. Refrigerate foods promptly
  4. Avoid cross contamination
  
  For more food safety information:
  FoodSafety.gov, Gateway to Government Food Safety Information
  Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA
  Foodborne Illness, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, FDA