Outbreaks show limits of US ability to safeguard produce from Mexico

Recent outbreaks have highlighted the limited capacity of the US to safeguard produce imported from Mexico. According to agency data, FDA employment has decreased by 22% this year in comparison to 2024. This significant decline in the workforce is attributed, in part, to workforce cuts implemented under President Donald Trump. These staffing shortages have directly impacted the agency's ability to maintain food safety standards and prevent outbreaks originating from Mexican produce imports.