What does "adulterated" mean in the context of pharmaceuticals?

In the context of pharmaceuticals, "adulterated" refers specifically to a product that is contaminated or compromised in quality, typically by consisting of filthy, putrid, or decomposed substances. This definition aligns with the regulatory standards set by entities such as the FDA, which aim to ensure that medications maintain their safety, identity, strength, quality, and purity. An adulterated product may pose serious health risks to consumers, as it can contain harmful impurities or be ineffective due to spoilage.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of what "adulterated" means. For instance, a product being composed solely of FDA-approved ingredients might still be adulterated if those ingredients are compromised in quality. Similarly, being produced in a certified facility or labelled correctly with expiration dates does not necessarily mean the product is free from contamination or deterioration. Therefore, the most fitting description of "adulterated" in this context is one that highlights the presence of unacceptable and unsafe substances.