What is the primary purpose of the FSIS?

The primary purpose of the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is to ensure food safety and security. As a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the FSIS plays a crucial role in overseeing the integrity of the meat, poultry, and egg products that enter the food supply. It enforces standards and regulations designed to protect public health by ensuring that food is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled.

This involves conducting inspections of processing plants, monitoring slaughtering practices, and checking for compliance with safety standards. Through its various programs, the FSIS works to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain consumer confidence in the nation's food supply. Thus, the correct option emphasizes the essential function of the FSIS in safeguarding the health of consumers by ensuring that the food they eat is safe and properly inspected.