What is the primary mission of the Department of Agriculture?

The primary mission of the Department of Agriculture is to ensure a safe, sufficient, and nutritious food supply, which encapsulates a broader agenda that includes various functions, such as food safety, nutrition assistance programs, and agricultural productivity. This mission focuses on not just the immediate availability of food, but also its overall quality and safety for consumers.

While growing food is essential, it is only one aspect of the overarching mission. The department works to support farmers and ranchers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices, which contribute to the comprehensive goal of a reliable food supply. Additionally, the department plays a critical role in ensuring that there are adequate plans and systems in place to respond to disruptions like a terrorist incident, thereby emphasizing food security in times of crisis.

Therefore, the accurate recognition of the department's mission includes all these aspects—growing food, feeding the nation during emergencies, and ensuring the safety and nutritional value of food supplies—making the selection that encompasses all of these functions the most comprehensive and correct choice.