News Summary
The U.S. government has initiated a coordinated effort to define and regulate ultra-processed foods due to concerns about their impact on chronic health conditions. Led by key federal agencies, this initiative includes a joint Request for Information (RFI) to gather input for a standardized definition of such foods. With ultra-processed items constituting approximately 70% of packaged food in supermarkets, the initiative aims to enhance consumer transparency and inform future regulations and public health campaigns.
Washington D.C., July 24, 2024 —
The U.S. government has announced a coordinated effort to define and regulate ultra-processed foods amid rising concerns over their contribution to chronic health conditions. Led by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, federal agencies are working together to better understand and address the impact of these foods on public health.
Federal Agencies Launch Efforts to Define Ultra-Processed Foods
To guide future research, regulations, and consumer information, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and USDA have announced a joint Request for Information (RFI). This initiative seeks input from stakeholders to develop a federally recognized and standardized definition of ultra-processed foods. Currently, no single authoritative definition exists within the U.S. food supply, which complicates efforts to regulate and educate the public about these products.
Goals of the Initiative
The primary aim of the RFI is to improve transparency for consumers regarding the foods they purchase and consume. By establishing a clear and consistent definition, policymakers hope to bolster research efforts, facilitate regulatory measures, and inform public health campaigns. A uniform definition will support scientific studies examining the health effects of ultra-processed foods and enable policymakers to implement effective standards and guidelines.
Statistics Highlight the Scope of Ultra-Processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods are pervasive in the U.S. diet; estimates indicate that they account for approximately 70% of packaged food products found in supermarkets. The consumption of these foods is especially high among children, with more than 60% of their daily calories coming from ultra-processed sources. The widespread presence of such foods underscores the urgency of regulatory and educational measures.
Health Risks Associated with Ultra-Processed Foods
Research has consistently linked high intake of ultra-processed foods to various health issues. Scientific studies associate these foods with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, and neurological disorders. The health consequences are particularly concerning given the high prevalence of such foods in American diets and their role in the childhood chronic disease epidemic.
Government Investments in Research and Policy Development
In addition to the RFI, the FDA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are funding high-quality research through the Nutrition Regulatory Science Program. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of how ultra-processed foods affect health and to inform future policies that promote healthier eating habits across the population.
Industry and Public Response
Food manufacturers are being encouraged to reformulate products by removing artificial dyes and other additives linked to health risks. Public concern about food additives and chemicals continues to grow, with surveys showing that many Americans believe these substances may harm health. Despite increased attention to food labels, a significant proportion of consumers find labels untrustworthy or confusing, complicating their ability to make informed choices.
Comparison with International Practices
American dietary patterns feature notably higher levels of sugar, trans fats, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods compared to many European and other wealthy nations. These trends are associated with nearly double the rates of obesity and diabetes in the U.S. and are considered among key drivers of the country’s public health challenges.
Future Policy and Public Health Focus
The federal government recognizes that multi-faceted policies are necessary to combat the chronic disease crisis linked to poor dietary habits. Efforts include promoting nutrition education, regulating artificial ingredients, and supporting industry reformulation. The upcoming public comment period starting July 24 will provide stakeholders and consumers an opportunity to contribute to shaping these regulatory efforts.
Conclusion
With the launch of the RFI and increased research funding, the U.S. aims to establish a clear framework for defining and regulating ultra-processed foods. These measures represent a concerted step toward improving public health outcomes by addressing one of the leading factors in diet-related chronic diseases. The success of these initiatives could influence future regulations, industry practices, and consumer choices across the country.
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
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
