Which federal agency regulates food and drug safety?

• A. World Health Organization
• B. Food and Drug Administration
• C. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• D. American Heart Association

Answer: (B)

Regulating the safety of food and medicines in the United States is handled by a federal agency that approves new drugs, monitors safety after they’re on the market, and sets labeling and safety standards for products used by people. The Food and Drug Administration carries out these duties, covering human drugs, vaccines, medical devices, cosmetics, and most foods. This role isn’t filled by international organizations or nonprofit groups: the World Health Organization operates globally and doesn’t regulate U.S. products; the Occupational Safety and Health Administration focuses on workplace safety rather than consumer health products; and the American Heart Association is a nonprofit advocacy and education group with no regulatory authority. Therefore, the agency responsible for food and drug safety is the FDA.