The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1938 that regulates the safety and effectiveness of food, drugs, and cosmetics. It established the framework for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to oversee the approval and monitoring of these products, ensuring they meet safety standards before reaching consumers. The FFDCA requires that all food and drug products be properly labeled and free from harmful substances. It also mandates that new drugs undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy before they can be marketed, protecting public health and ensuring informed consumer choices.