USDA Secretary Assures Food Supply Safety Amid New Screwworm Cases in Texas

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated on Monday that the U.S. food supply is not at risk due to the recent return of the screwworm parasite in Texas. In an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box," Rollins described the screwworm as a pest that can be treated and emphasized the USDA's commitment to addressing the issue. The USDA confirmed two additional cases of screwworm in Texas, bringing the total to four. The first case was reported on Wednesday, marking the first instances of screwworm in the U.S. since the 1960s. Rollins noted that the USDA is investing over a billion dollars to combat the pest and will use methods similar to those employed in the past, including the release of sterile insects to control the population. Texas agriculture officials have expressed concerns about the USDA's response speed, while Rollins defended the agency's efforts. The screwworm poses risks to livestock and pets but does not infest food products.