State of California Food and Agriculture Department

Established in 1880, the California Department of Food and Agriculture promotes growth in the agricultural sector by working with various private industries and public sector agencies. The department employs a work force of more than 2,300 employees, including scientists, veterinarians, economists, marketing specialists, laboratory technicians, administrators and communicators. The California Department of Food and Agriculture provides on-farm food safety management and pest eradication services. The department provides quality assurance services and examines meat, poultry, vegetables, fruits and dairy products. It has a team of biological control researchers who work to discover environment friendly alternatives to pesticides. The department s international trade representatives help growers create new markets for their products. It additionally issues licenses and permits for livestock brand registration and interstate movement. Headquartered in Sacramento, Calif., the California Department of Food and Agriculture maintains a presence in Riverside, Calif.