What is the primary focus of the USDA?

The primary focus of the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) is indeed on inspecting meat, poultry, and eggs. This responsibility is part of their mission to ensure that these products are safe, wholesome, and truthfully labeled. The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) regulates the safety of meat, poultry, and processed egg products, enforcing standards that help protect public health.

While inspecting all food products is an important task, it is primarily the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that oversees the safety of a broader range of food items. Conducting research on foodborne illnesses is also crucial, but it's typically conducted by various agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and research institutions. Lastly, overseeing food codes relates more to the development and implementation of food safety guidelines and practices at state and local levels, which is beyond the main focus of the USDA.