FDA Food Division Head Resigns Over Mass Layoffs

Jim Jones steps down citing 'indiscriminate' firings of key staff, raising concerns about food safety and public health oversight.

Jim Jones, head of the FDA's food division, resigned after the Trump administration terminated 89 staff members in the division, including experts in food safety and nutrition.
Jones criticized the layoffs as undermining efforts to improve public health by reducing diet-related diseases and chemical risks in food.
The firings are part of a broader downsizing initiative led by the administration, which has targeted thousands of federal employees across health-related agencies.
Jones previously oversaw significant actions, including banning Red No. 3 dye and addressing lead contamination in applesauce, but stated it was 'fruitless' to continue under current conditions.
The White House defended the layoffs as part of its 'America First Agenda,' while experts warn the cuts could jeopardize food safety and public health protections.