AskUSDA (2024)

FAQs

What is ask usda? ›

​​​ AskUSDA is a contact center that answers general inquiries from the public using trained agents and self-service options. To date, AskUSDA has partnered with 19 agencies to improve the customer experience offered to the public.

While response to the Census of Agriculture is required by law, USDA will not fine a producer who does not return their ag census form.

What We Do. We provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on public policy, the best available science, and effective management.

Our agencies help to keep America's farmers and ranchers in business and ensure that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled.

From the inspection of domestic product, imports, and exports; conducting risk assessments; and educating the public about the importance of food safety, USDA is there.

USDA is committed to ensuring that Americans have access to safe food through a farm-to-table approach to reduce and prevent foodborne illness. To help ensure a plentiful supply of food, the Department detects and quickly responds to new invasive species and emerging agricultural and public health situations.

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) mission is to provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.

The primary difference between USDA direct loans and USDA guaranteed loans is who funds the actual loan. With the USDA direct loan, the USDA acts as the lender. Conversely, with the guaranteed loan program, private lenders fund the loan while the USDA backs each loan against default.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) home loans program offers mortgages to low-income residents of rural areas who cannot otherwise obtain a conventional mortgage. If you live in a rural area and can't qualify for a conventional loan, you may qualify for either a USDA guaranteed loan or a USDA direct loan.

What does USDA approved mean? ›

USDA organic certification indicates that a product has been grown and manufactured in a sustainable and safe way. It is a powerful way to set your product apart from competitors. Meanwhile, USDA meat, poultry, and egg certification signals that products are safe, sanitary, and properly labeled and packaged.