Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

U.S. Agencies Tackle Ultra Processed Food Amid Health Concerns

Jul 24, 2025
By Farms.com

Federal Leaders Aim to Define and Reduce Food Health Risks

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working together to address health risks linked to ultra-processed foods. This effort is part of a broader strategy to reduce diet-related chronic illnesses across the country.

Under the leadership of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, the agencies are launching a public Request for Information (RFI). The RFI seeks input from experts and the public to help develop a single, clear definition for ultra-processed foods in the United States.

Currently, there is no standard definition, which makes research and public guidance difficult. A consistent definition will help shape future policies and improve food labeling, giving consumers better tools to make healthy choices.

This move follows the release of the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, which highlights how ultra-processed foods contribute to rising chronic diseases in children. Studies show that around 70% of packaged foods in the U.S. are ultra-processed, and children receive more than 60% of their calories from such foods.

These foods are linked to health problems like heart disease, cancer, obesity, and diabetes. The new federal efforts aim to address these challenges through better research, regulation, and public education.

The FDA and National Institutes of Health are also funding research through the Nutrition Regulatory Science Program to explore the health impacts of processed foods.


Trending Video

Empowering Women’s Role in Farm Safety

Video: Empowering Women’s Role in Farm Safety

Join us for the first episode of a nine-part series dedicated to advancing women in agriculture as we explore women’s role in farm safety.

As owner of Vital Insight Safety & Human Resources Consulting, Lori Brookhouse shares her 17 years' experience in occupational health and safety and provides actionable takeaways you can use on your farm.

Drawing on recent data and historical studies, Lori examines the evolving role of women in Canadian farming, their unique safety risks and their contributions to farm safety initiatives.