Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which regulatory agency typically oversees the accuracy of nutritional labeling?

1. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

3. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

4. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The correct answer is: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in overseeing the accuracy of nutritional labeling. This agency is responsible for ensuring that food products meet specific standards, including the proper labeling of ingredients, nutrition facts, and claims made about the health benefits of those products. The FDA sets regulations that food manufacturers must follow, such as providing accurate serving sizes, calorie content, and dietary components like fats, sugars, and proteins. The FDA's focus on consumer protection includes making sure that labels do not mislead consumers, thereby allowing them to make informed choices about their food. The agency also updates its regulations periodically to reflect new scientific information and public health needs. In contrast, other agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focus on environmental protection and public health concerning chemical exposures, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes workplace safety and health standards, neither of which directly pertains to nutritional labeling. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) primarily oversees aspects related to meat, poultry, and some egg products, with a different focus than that of the FDA concerning nutritional information on food labels.