Which federal agency is responsible for regulating food additives?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the federal agency responsible for regulating food additives. The FDA's role includes ensuring that food additives are safe for consumption and effective for their intended use. The agency evaluates scientific data and research provided by manufacturers before approving the additives for use in food products. This regulatory function is critical in protecting public health by ensuring that substances added to food do not pose any danger to consumers.

The FDA also oversees compliance with established regulations concerning labeling and safety standards. This includes the review processes for both new food additives and those that are already in use, ensuring ongoing monitoring for any potential health risks that may arise as more research is conducted.

This regulatory authority is distinct from that of the USDA, which focuses more on the agricultural side of food production and animal health, the EPA, which regulates environmental pollutants and chemicals, and the NIA, which does not specifically regulate food additives. The unique responsibility of the FDA in this area underscores its critical role in the food safety system in the United States.