What federal agency regulates food and drug products sold to the public?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the federal agency responsible for regulating food and drug products sold to the public. Its primary role includes ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices. The FDA also oversees the safety of the nation’s food supply, including dietary supplements, and establishes regulations for consumer products not strictly defined as drugs or medical devices.

The FDA's regulatory authority means it sets standards for the manufacturing, labeling, and marketing of food and drug products, ensuring that these products meet safety requirements before they can be sold to consumers. This includes conducting inspections, reviewing clinical trials, and monitoring the post-marketing phase to ensure that products remain safe for public use.

Other agencies mentioned, such as the Federal Trade Commission, focus on preventing unfair or deceptive business practices, while the National Institutes of Health primarily conducts and supports medical research. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on the other hand, is dedicated to public health and safety, notably in controlling disease outbreaks, but it does not directly regulate food and drug products.