Source: Fortune
Summary
A surge in food recalls this summer has raised concerns about food safety in the U.S. Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce and jalapenos due to contamination, while Dairy Queen and Hodo Foods also issued recalls. These incidents coincided with staffing cuts at the FDA, USDA, and CDC under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Experts warn that reduced inspections and surveillance are increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. The FDA reported fewer foreign food inspections in recent years, and the CDC scaled back its FoodNet surveillance system. Despite claims of maintaining safety, officials acknowledge challenges in staffing and resources.
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The numbers tell one story.
Food recalls rose sharply in 2026, with Taylor Farms, Dairy Queen, and Hodo Foods all issuing major recalls.
DOGE cuts reduced FDA and USDA staff, leading to fewer inspections and surveillance.
Experts say the cuts are making it harder to track and prevent foodborne illnesses.
The government claims safety remains a priority, but the data tells a different story.
Author: Evan Null
DOGE’s cuts across food safety
DOGE’s cuts have reduced staffing at the USDA, FDA, and CDC, leading to fewer inspections and surveillance. The USDA reported over 1,100 fewer FSIS roles since 2024. The FDA has conducted fewer foreign food inspections, down from 805 in 2024 to 214 in the first half of 2026. These reductions have affected the agency’s ability to monitor imported food, which makes up 20% of the U.S. food supply.
Pre-existing food safety problems
The FDA has struggled with meeting inspection targets for years. A 2025 GAO report found that the agency failed to inspect 49% of high-risk facilities in 2021. The FDA cited workforce shortages as the main reason for these shortfalls. Similar issues were identified in 2009 and even earlier, showing a long-standing problem with funding and staffing.
What DOGE made worse
DOGE’s cuts have worsened the existing staffing issues, leading to a lack of oversight and accountability. Experts say companies are becoming less cautious without regular inspections. The USDA plans to shutter the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, which houses key parasitology labs studying cyclospora. Scientists warn that moving these labs could delay critical research.
Experts express concern
Don Schaffner, a food science professor, said the cuts are making it harder to track and prevent foodborne illnesses. He criticized the decision to close the Beltsville labs, calling it a “boneheaded decision.” Marion Nestle, a nutrition professor, said funding for food safety is often overlooked in favor of agricultural and rural development programs.
Government response
The USDA and FDA claim they are maintaining safety standards despite staffing cuts. The FDA said it is prioritizing inspection capabilities and has a proposed 2027 budget of $7.2 billion. However, experts argue that the agency’s ability to prevent outbreaks is being undermined by reduced resources and oversight.
