Which agency is responsible for ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of foods, drugs, biologics, radioactive products, medical devices, and cosmetics?

• A. Centers for Disease Control
• B. Department of Agriculture
• C. Environmental Protection Agency
• D. FDA

Answer: (D)

The agency responsible for regulating foods, drugs, biologics, radioactive products, medical devices, and cosmetics is the FDA. Its mission is to protect public health by ensuring products are safe, effective (where required), and properly labeled and manufactured. For drugs and biologics, FDA review and approve evidence of safety and efficacy before they reach the market. Medical devices are evaluated and cleared based on risk, with higher-risk devices requiring more controls. Foods and cosmetics are overseen for safety and labeling, with ongoing post-market monitoring. For products that involve radioactive materials or radiological health, FDA sets safety standards and oversees appropriate use. The agency also works to keep the supply chain secure by preventing adulteration, ensuring proper manufacturing practices, and enforcing recalls when issues arise. Other agencies have different focuses—CDC handles public health surveillance, USDA regulates certain agricultural products like meat and poultry, and EPA handles environmental concerns—so FDA is the central regulator for these product categories.