How are recent cuts at the FDA affecting employees and operations?

FDA employees are experiencing significant job insecurity following widespread cuts that have affected approximately 10% of certain departments. One FDA employee reported chaos and confusion in her office, which is responsible for reviewing new ingredients in the food supply. Staff members are still trying to determine exactly who has been terminated, though they know that both scientists and administrative personnel have lost their jobs. The cuts have created an atmosphere of anxiety among remaining employees who worry about future job security. These layoffs are particularly concerning as they impact departments handling critical public safety functions like food ingredient reviews, potentially compromising public health protections.