During Senate confirmation hearings, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee for HHS Secretary, reiterated his stance that ultra-processed foods and additives are harming Americans.

Kennedy asserted to senators on January 30th that food manufacturers have been allowing the mass poisoning of American children, a practice he aims to stop.

However, the previous day, while testifying before the Senate Finance Committee, Kennedy indicated he wouldn’t ban ultra-processed foods but focus on educating the public about their health impacts. His potential role overseeing agencies like the FDA would significantly influence U.S. food policy.

This article explores ultra-processed foods and Kennedy’s proposed food system changes.

What are ultra-processed foods?

The majority of the U.S. food supply is ultra-processed, but defining this category is complex.

A universal definition is lacking, with varying interpretations. A common definition considers ultra-processed foods as those primarily made from oils, sugars, starches, and industrial ingredients absent from typical home kitchens. This includes common junk foods, but also items like flavored yogurts, some breads, and nondairy milks.

What RFK has said about ultra-processed foods—and what the science says

Kennedy has previously described ultra-processed foods as “poison,” a key contributor to the nation’s health crisis.

He maintained this view during questioning, linking the rise in childhood obesity to something “poisoning” children.

The accuracy of such broad claims is debatable due to the category’s diversity, according to Alice Lichtenstein of Tufts University. While a diet rich in minimally processed foods is generally healthier, a definitive assessment of ultra-processed foods’ impact requires a standardized classification system, she notes.

Studies have linked ultra-processed foods to various health issues, including cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health problems. However, even these studies highlight variations within the category. For example, some studies show sugary drinks and processed meats increase heart disease risk, while others like breakfast cereals and certain yogurts show a reduced risk.

Kennedy’s specific food-related assertions vary in accuracy. His claim that canola oil is unhealthy and beef fat healthier is incorrect, says Lichtenstein. He also advocates for raw milk despite warnings of foodborne illness risks from health agencies.

Other views, such as the dangers of food dyes, are more widely accepted. The FDA recently banned a certain dye linked to cancer in animals. (Kennedy’s claims linking dyes to ADHD lack strong support, though some connection exists). His assertion about processed sugar contributing to obesity and diabetes is scientifically supported.

What Kennedy wants to do about ultra-processed foods

Kennedy stated he doesn’t intend to ban ultra-processed foods, emphasizing consumer choice. He aims to inform consumers of potential health effects.

His “Make America Healthy Again” website outlines plans to ban certain food additives, change regulations and subsidies, and reduce ultra-processed food dominance. He also intends to restructure federal health agencies, criticizing existing departments for failing to protect children.

Kennedy reiterated these plans, vowing to prioritize healthy food subsidies, scrutinize food additives, and address conflicts of interest within agencies.

Neil Maniar of Northeastern University supports aspects of Kennedy’s proposals, including healthier school food, removal of harmful additives, and improving overall food quality. However, he stresses the importance of science-based, not politically driven, policies, especially considering Kennedy’s background and past misinformation.

Maniar emphasizes the primacy of science and community partnerships in guiding public health policy.