Which law prohibits the distribution of food and drugs that are misbranded or adulterated?

The law that specifically prohibits the distribution of food and drugs that are misbranded or adulterated is the Pure Food and Drug Act. Enacted in 1906, this legislation was significant as it laid the foundation for regulatory control over food and drug products in the United States. The Pure Food and Drug Act aimed to prevent the sale of poorly made or misrepresented products, addressing public health concerns regarding the quality of food and medicines available to consumers.

This act established the requirement that drugs and food products must be labeled honestly and accurately, protecting consumers from deceptive practices. It was a crucial step forward in ensuring the safety and integrity of products in the marketplace. Though subsequent laws, such as the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, expanded on these principles and established more comprehensive regulatory frameworks, the Pure Food and Drug Act specifically tackled issues of misbranding and adulteration at its inception.

Understanding this context is vital for recognizing the historical evolution of food and drug regulation that followed this initial legislation.