The Trump Administration to Review Safety of Ultraprocessed Ingredients
Health and Human Service Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the Trump administration is gearing up to take action on a petition calling for a review of the safety of ultraprocessed ingredients like high fructose corn syrup. While he did not explicitly call for new regulations on the packaged food industry, Kennedy mentioned that they will be reviewing a citizen petition filed by former FDA commissioner Dr. David Kessler last August.
Kessler’s petition argues for the reevaluation of processed refined carbohydrates, citing new scientific evidence that questions their safety under the FDA’s “Generally Recognized as Safe” system. Kennedy expressed support for this petition, stating that the FDA should have been asking these questions a long time ago.
Kessler likened the food industry to the tobacco sector, claiming that ultraprocessed ingredients are designed to be addictive and contribute to poor nutrition. Kennedy has been leading the charge against ultraprocessed foods through his “Make America Healthy Again” movement, labeling sugar and other ingredients as “poison” that should be eliminated from the food supply.
Despite facing legal challenges, including potential action on the GRAS process, Kennedy has been advocating for voluntary actions and consumer education. He emphasized the importance of the new dietary guidelines, which promote consuming “real food” and avoiding processed options.
During his interview on “60 Minutes,” Kennedy reiterated the importance of informing the public about the contents of their food. While he did not explicitly mention regulating ultraprocessed foods, he emphasized the need for transparency and public awareness.