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.