Yes, faucets shipped to the US from overseas must meet US standards, particularly regarding lead leaching. All faucets sold in the US are required to meet the lead leaching requirements of the American National Standard NSF/ANSI/CAN 61. Additionally, faucets must adhere to other performance standards related to corrosion, adhesion, abrasion, flow rates, and backflow prevention.
I assume that some off shore items might not get checked but the vast majoity are. lead has been used in faucets for eons also all the soldering in the copper pipes that were consisdered the best so we have all been exposed for our lives .I would be much more impressed if an independant reasearch was done than one done by a major supplier who has maybe found sales down .

If Moen and/or the IAPMO were to publish knowingly false or fabricated studies, it could lead to potential legal repercussions for defamation. I am pretty sure Moen has smart lawyers who know the legal risks of defamation. I highly doubt they would publish something that can get them sued.

With a touch of a faucet, ANY faucet, God know how many times in a single day? I have no clue why anyone buys an off brand.

Unless you're flipping a house or condo in el cheapo mode? I'd say save money on something ELSE.