Approximately how many personnel are dedicated to the FSIS inspection workforce?

The correct answer is based on the fact that the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has approximately 9,600 personnel dedicated to its inspection workforce. This number reflects the agency's ongoing commitment to ensuring food safety and protecting public health through meat, poultry, and egg product inspections. The workforce includes inspectors who carry out on-site inspections of food processing facilities, ensuring that they comply with safety standards and regulations.

This staffing level is crucial as it allows the FSIS to adequately monitor facilities across the country and respond to the needs of the food supply chain effectively. Maintaining a well-staffed inspection force is essential for the agency's ability to both conduct routine inspections and address any safety issues that arise, ultimately contributing to the prevention of foodborne illnesses.

Understanding this figure in the context of food safety helps to underscore the importance of having sufficient personnel to meet the demands of food safety regulations in a large and diverse food industry.