U.S. Department of Agriculture St. Louis Food Safety and Inspection Service Lab

The new USDA Food Safety & Inspection Service (FSIS) laboratory in Normandy, Missouri, is one of only three dedicated FSIS testing facilities nationwide, serving as a key site for ensuring the safety of America’s meat, poultry, and egg supply. Purpose-built at 82,719 square feet, the facility houses state-of-the-art chemistry and biology laboratories as well as administrative spaces for 83 federal employees.

The project prioritizes efficient lab workflows, secure sample handling, and federal security—including a perimeter fence,  vehicle barriers, metal detection, and controlled building access. Generous natural light, open office layouts, and communal spaces foster collaboration and support staff wellbeing.

This new lab addresses specific needs identified by FSIS staff and security, moving lab operations from a shared federal complex to a standalone, mission-driven facility. Located between the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a public library on a historically significant site, the building enhances operational effectiveness while providing flexibility for future scientific advancements. Updated infrastructure and thoughtful design ensure a secure, adaptable, and healthy environment—positioning FSIS to advance its mission of protecting public health for years to come.