Federal Agencies Tackle Ultra-Processed Foods Definition

A view of a grocery store aisle highlighting the contrast between healthy options and ultra-processed foods.

News Summary

Federal agencies, led by Health and Human Services and USDA officials, are seeking to define ultra-processed foods amid rising chronic diseases in the U.S. The FDA and USDA’s joint initiative aims to collect data for a standardized definition, promoting transparency in food labeling. With ultra-processed foods comprising 70% of U.S. packaged products and contributing to severe health issues such as obesity and diabetes, stakeholders are urged to participate in this critical discussion. This move reflects a commitment to enhancing public health through improved dietary choices and reducing health risks associated with unhealthy food consumption.

Washington, D.C. — In response to the alarming rise in chronic diseases across the nation, federal agencies are stepping up efforts to define and combat the growing prevalence of ultra-processed foods. Under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have announced a joint Request for Information (RFI). This initiative aims to gather crucial data for establishing a standardized definition of ultra-processed foods, thereby promoting greater transparency for consumers.

Currently, there is no single authoritative definition of ultra-processed foods applicable to the U.S. food supply. The RFI represents an important step towards defining these foods, which according to HHS Secretary Kennedy, are contributing significantly to the ongoing epidemic of chronic diseases in America. He has stressed the necessity of a clear definition to facilitate meaningful actions aimed at improving the health landscape regarding dietary choices.

Statistics highlight the gravity of the issue; ultra-processed foods now constitute approximately 70% of all packaged products on the U.S. market. Alarmingly, more than 60% of the calories consumed by children in the United States are derived from these foods. Scientific research has established connections between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, and even neurological disorders.

By creating a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods, the FDA and other health institutions will be able to implement consistent research practices and develop effective policies designed to address the health risks posed by these products. The RFI will become publicly accessible in the federal register starting July 24 and aims to involve a broad range of stakeholders in this critical discussion.

In tandem with the RFI, the FDA, along with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is embarking on substantial research under the Nutrition Regulatory Science Program. This initiative is focused on understanding the health impacts of ultra-processed foods, reflecting the U.S. government’s commitment to enhancing health outcomes through informed food choices.

The government is also pushing for food manufacturers to phase out a variety of artificial dyes from their products. These measures recognize the role of the overconsumption of ultra-processed foods as a significant contributor to the increasing childhood chronic disease crisis. Notably, the U.S. exhibits nearly double the rates of obesity and diabetes compared to some European countries, illustrating the urgent need for dietary reforms.

In comparison to other wealthy nations, American diets contain considerably higher amounts of sugar, ultra-processed foods, and trans/saturated fats. Recent surveys indicate that many American adults express concerns over food additives and chemicals, with a substantial majority believing these substances pose health risks. Although attention to food labels appears to be increasing, trust in these labels remains low among consumers, with only a small percentage finding them trustworthy.

To tackle these pressing health issues, multi-faceted policies aimed at reducing chronic diseases and promoting healthier eating habits are currently being discussed. The collaboration between federal agencies marks a significant stride in addressing public health concerns and fostering a food supply that prioritizes the well-being of consumers.