What FDA Regulates
FDA is the federal agency responsible for ensuring that foods
are safe, wholesome and sanitary; human and veterinary drugs, biological products,
and medical devices are safe and effective; cosmetics are safe; and electronic
products that emit radiation are safe. FDA also ensures that these products
are honestly, accurately and informatively represented to the public. Some
of the agency's specific responsibilities include:
Biologics
- product and manufacturing establishment licensing
- safety of the nation's blood supply
- research to establish product standards and develop improved testing methods
Cosmetics
Drugs
- product approvals
- OTC and prescription drug labeling
- drug manufacturing standards
Foods
- labeling
- safety of all food products (except meat and poultry)
- bottled water
Medical Devices
- premarket approval of new devices
- manufacturing and performance standards
- tracking reports of device malfunctioning and serious adverse reactions
Radiation-Emitting Electronic Products
- radiation safety performance standards for microwave ovens, television
receivers, diagnostic
- x-ray equipment, cabinet x-ray systems (such as baggage x-rays at airports),
laser products,
- ultrasonic therapy equipment, mercury vapor lamps, and sunlamps
- accrediting and inspecting mammography facilities
Veterinary Products
- livestock feeds
- pet foods
- veterinary drugs and devices
What FDA Does Not Regulate
