Senate Questions FDA on Ultra-Processed Foods as RFK Jr. Faces Confirmation Scrutiny

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s HHS nominee, pushes for stricter food regulations while his controversial views on vaccines raise bipartisan concerns.

A bipartisan Senate panel criticized the FDA for delays in regulating ultra-processed foods and food dyes, linking them to rising chronic diseases and obesity rates.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, has made food reform central to his 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, advocating for removing ultra-processed foods from schools and limiting food dyes.
FDA officials cited legal and resource challenges in implementing stricter food labeling and regulation, as senators pressed for faster action to address public health concerns.
Kennedy's confirmation faces opposition over his history of promoting vaccine skepticism and alternative treatments, with some lawmakers questioning his qualifications for the role.
Public health advocates and experts emphasize the need for bold food policy changes, including taxes on sugary drinks, mandatory sodium limits, and clearer front-of-package labeling to improve national health outcomes.