What is the primary role of the FDA?

The primary role of the FDA, or the Food and Drug Administration, is to determine if a food or drug is safe and effective for public use. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including evaluating new drugs and food products before they can be marketed to ensure they meet safety standards and are effective for their intended purposes. The FDA conducts rigorous scientific evaluations and inspects manufacturing facilities to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

While the agency does engage in various regulatory activities related to food advertising and agricultural practices, its core mission centers around protecting and promoting public health by ensuring that consumables meet established standards of safety and efficacy. This aspect is fundamental, as it directly impacts the health and well-being of the population by preventing the distribution of harmful or ineffective products.