ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which agency is responsible for the regulation of food and pharmaceuticals in the United States?

1. US Department of Agriculture

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

3. Food and Drug Administration

4. Environmental Protection Agency

The correct answer is: Food and Drug Administration

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the agency responsible for the regulation of food and pharmaceuticals in the United States. The FDA's primary role is to ensure that food products are safe, sanitary, wholesome, and labeled according to regulations. Additionally, the FDA regulates the approval and monitoring of pharmaceuticals, ensuring that medications are safe and effective for public use. This regulatory responsibility encompasses a wide range of products, from over-the-counter medications to prescription drugs, vaccines, and food additives. The agency conducts rigorous evaluations through clinical trials and post-market surveillance to monitor the safety of these products after they have been approved for public use. In contrast, other agencies, such as the US Department of Agriculture primarily focus on agricultural products and food safety concerning meat, poultry, and eggs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mainly address public health issues and disease control, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manages environmental health and safety rather than food and drugs. This delineation of responsibilities highlights the FDA's unique role in overseeing and regulating food and pharmaceuticals.