Federal Agencies Aim to Define Ultra-Processed Foods

News Summary

U.S. federal agencies are intensifying efforts to address health issues linked to ultra-processed foods, associated with chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes. Led by HHS and USDA, the FDA is working on a definition to improve consumer awareness and public health. This comes as ultra-processed foods constitute around 70% of packaged products in the U.S., with significant health risks identified. A Request for Information will soon gather public input as part of a strategy to tackle these dietary concerns and enhance transparency in the food supply.

Washington, D.C. — U.S. federal agencies are ramping up efforts to tackle the growing health issues associated with ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Under the leadership of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, the FDA and USDA are collaborating to establish a clear definition of ultra-processed foods in a bid to enhance consumer awareness and address public health concerns.

The announcement comes amid rising chronic disease rates in America, with ultra-processed foods now making up approximately 70% of packaged products in the U.S. food supply. Alarmingly, over 60% of calories consumed by children come from these food items. Scientific research has shown a connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a range of serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, and neurological disorders.

To assist in this endeavor, a joint Request for Information (RFI) will be issued to gather essential data that will help in formulating a federally recognized definition of ultra-processed foods. This RFI will open for public comments in the federal register starting July 24. Experts believe that creating a uniform definition is crucial for facilitating consistent research and policy development that targets the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods.

Focus on Health and Transparency

Health and Human Services (HHS) officials have acknowledged the urgent need for a clear definition of ultra-processed foods to improve the nation’s food supply. This initiative forms part of a broader government strategy aimed at enhancing health outcomes related to dietary choices. Concurrently, the FDA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are investing in high-quality research through the Nutrition Regulatory Science Program to explore the health impacts of these foods.

The rising consumption of ultra-processed foods is consistently viewed as a significant factor contributing to the childhood chronic disease crisis in the United States. Recent health statistics reveal that the U.S. struggles with nearly double the rates of obesity and diabetes compared to certain European countries. This stark contrast is often attributed to dietary habits that are considerably higher in sugar, ultra-processed foods, and unhealthy fats than those in other wealthy nations.

Public Response and Awareness

Public concerns regarding food safety and additive use have also been growing. Many American adults express anxiety about potential health risks posed by food additives and chemicals. Recent surveys indicate that while consumers are becoming more vigilant about reading food labels, a significant number do not find them to be reliable. This highlights a vital gap in consumer trust that the proposed definition aims to address.

To encourage healthier food choices, food manufacturers are being urged to eliminate various artificial dyes from their products as part of the government’s broader initiative. Multi-faceted policies are now under discussion, aimed not only at reducing chronic diseases but also at promoting healthier eating patterns across the nation.

Conclusion

This collaborative effort by the FDA, USDA, and other federal agencies reflects a growing recognition of the impact that dietary choices have on health outcomes. As the RFI goes live, stakeholders from various sectors will have the opportunity to contribute to this important dialogue about the definition and implications of ultra-processed foods. This initiative is seen as a critical step towards improving public health and ensuring transparency in the U.S. food supply.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Bloomberg: HHS and USDA on Ultra-Processed Foods Definition
• Healthline: Ultra-Processed Foods and Premature Death
• The New Yorker: The Deadly American Diet
• CNN: Hyperpalatable Foods and Wellness
• Vox: July Fourth and Ultra-Processed Foods
• Wikipedia: Ultra-Processed Foods
• Google Scholar: Ultra-Processed Foods
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Processed Foods
• Google Search: Ultra-Processed Foods Health Effects
• Google News: Ultra-Processed Foods