Food, Drugs and Consumer Products

Scientific research is an essential part of ensuring the safety of food for Canadians. Some examples of the issues addressed by Health Canada's scientists are:

• Food contaminants, such as heavy metals or E. coli;
• Food additives, such as aspartame;
• Processes such as canning and irradiation;
• Novel foods, including genetically modified foods;
• Nutrition, including vitamins and minerals; and
• Mad cow disease.

In addition, our scientists participate in the review of drugs to assess their quality, safety and effectiveness. Drugs include prescription and non-prescription pharmaceuticals, disinfectants and sanitizers.

They also assess the health risks and safety hazards associated with consumer products such as toys, cosmetics and household items.