Eat Right Practice Exam

Which federal agency is charged with tracking outbreaks of foodborne illness?

1. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

2. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

3. USDA (US Department of Agriculture)

4. WHO (World Health Organization)

The correct answer is: CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the federal agency specifically tasked with monitoring and tracking outbreaks of foodborne illness. The CDC plays a crucial role in public health, collecting data on illness patterns, investigating outbreaks, and providing information to the public. It collaborates with state and local health departments to identify and control foodborne diseases, ensuring that effective measures are implemented to reduce the risk of future outbreaks. By analyzing surveillance data and responding to emergencies, the CDC helps maintain food safety and protects public health. The other organizations listed, while important in their respective areas, do not focus specifically on tracking foodborne illness outbreaks. The Federal Trade Commission deals primarily with consumer protection and antitrust laws. The USDA is responsible for food safety legislation but does not monitor outbreaks as extensively as the CDC. The World Health Organization operates at an international level and provides guidance but does not directly track outbreaks in the United States.