Final answer:
The FDA and USDA can request a voluntary recall from manufacturers when unsafe food products are identified, as they generally do not have the authority to mandate recalls.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are key government agencies involved in the regulation and safety of food. While these agencies have significant authority to enforce safety regulations and ensure traceability in food production, they generally do not have the power to mandate recalls. Instead, when there is a situation involving unsafe foods, the FDA or USDA may request a voluntary recall by the manufacturing company. This means that while the agencies can influence and request actions to protect public health, they rely on cooperative compliance from food manufacturers.
The FDA and USDA do not have the authority to recall unsafe foods. However, they can request a voluntary recall by the manufacturing company.
A voluntary recall is when the company decides to recall their product on their own accord. It is not mandatory, but it is encouraged by the FDA and USDA to protect public health.
In contrast, a mandatory recall is when the government orders the company to recall their product due to serious safety concerns.