Which organization is responsible for regulating the safety and efficacy of food and drugs in the U.S.?

The organization responsible for regulating the safety and efficacy of food and drugs in the United States is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA plays a critical role in protecting public health by ensuring that drugs, vaccines, and medical devices undergo rigorous testing and evaluation before they are approved for use. This involves assessing clinical trial data to verify safety and effectiveness, as well as continuous monitoring of products once they are on the market. By setting standards for food safety, pharmaceuticals, and medical products, the FDA helps ensure that consumers have access to safe and effective products, which is essential for public health.

In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily focuses on public health, disease prevention, and health promotion rather than drug and food regulation. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is mainly involved in biomedical research and the funding of research projects, while the World Health Organization (WHO) operates on an international level, providing guidance and setting health standards, but does not regulate food and drugs within the U.S. Thus, the FDA is the correct organization for this specific role.