What does the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) primarily oversee?

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) primarily oversees food and drug safety, ensuring that food products are safe for consumption and that drugs are effective and safe for use in humans. This includes the regulation of food additives, dietary supplements, vaccines, blood products, and pharmaceuticals. The agency conducts inspections, assesses clinical research, oversees the approval process for new drugs and medical devices, and monitors products once they are on the market to ensure ongoing safety and efficacy.

While the FDA may have some involvement in aspects related to health care delivery and agricultural practices (such as overseeing the safety and labeling of food products), its core mission revolves around protecting public health by regulating what people consume and use as medications. Environmental protection is primarily outside the FDA's scope, usually falling under the purview of agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Therefore, the focus on food and drug safety accurately reflects the primary responsibilities of the FDA.