The trained inspector is backed up by 

 well-equipped laboratory facilities. Each in- 

 spection office is equipped with the latest 

 scientific equipment usually needed for ana- 

 lyzing the commodities inspected in the area. 

 Strategically-located central laboratories are 



equipped to perform even more detailed quan- 

 titative analyses on such products as spices, 

 diet packs, and specialty packs. Some lab- 

 oratories are also maintained to perform 

 bacteriological analyses to determine the 

 wholesomeness of products and assist in 

 product quality control at processing plants. 



USDA- Federal Food and Drug 

 Administration Relationship 



USDA's Processed Fruit and Vegetable In- 

 spection is a service activity. Its major 

 purpose is to assist processors in preparing 

 better quality products and to provide official 

 certification concerning the grade, quality, 

 or condition of a product which will be useful 

 to all interested parties engaged in the market- 

 ing function. The Food and Drug Administra- 

 tion, on the other hand, is a regulatory 

 agency — charged with enforcement of the Fed- 

 eral Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. USDA- 

 inspected products are, of course, subject to 

 compliance with this Act. Representatives of 

 the two agencies strive for a common under- 

 standing and evaluation of conditions generally 

 relating to food plant sanitation and product 

 wholesomeness. 



