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On Oct. 1, 2024, the FDA began implementing a reorganization impacting many parts of the agency. We are in the process of updating FDA.gov content to reflect these changes.

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FDA Mission

The Food and Drug Administration is responsible for protecting the public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices; and by ensuring the safety of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation.

FDA also has responsibility for regulating the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products to protect the public health and to reduce tobacco use by minors.

FDA is responsible for advancing the public health by helping to speed innovations that make medical products more effective, safer, and more affordable and by helping the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to use medical products and foods to maintain and improve their health.

FDA also plays a significant role in the Nation's counterterrorism capability. FDA fulfills this responsibility by ensuring the security of the food supply and by fostering development of medical products to respond to deliberate and naturally emerging public health threats.

FDA: Protecting and Promoting Public Health

What Does FDA Regulate?

What Is Regulatory Science?

From Mammograms to Microwaves - FDA Scientists Keeping You Safe

How does the FDA approve new drugs?

FDA's Regulatory Responsibilities: Laws and Regulations

Product Approval

Recalls, News, and Events

Guidance Documents, Rulemaking, and Freedom of Information

Medical Product Information for Consumers



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