RFK Jr has committed to addressing ultra-processed foods, food dyes, and additives. Robert F Kennedy Jr is focused on transforming the American diet. From the additives in popular cereals to the oils in fast food, Kennedy, chosen by President-elect Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), has been vocal about harmful ingredients in food.
“We are failing our children by allowing [food] industries to harm them,” Kennedy stated at a rally in November. However, in order to confront junk food, Kennedy will need to challenge the country’s food regulations and face opposition from Big Food.
Former New York University nutrition professor Marion Nestle expressed doubts about whether Trump would support Kennedy in taking on the food industry. Kennedy’s nomination has sparked controversy due to his past claims, such as linking vaccines to autism and wifi technology to cancer.
Despite this, Kennedy’s proposals to reform the FDA have garnered support from health experts, lawmakers, and concerned citizens. His focus on eliminating ultra-processed foods and harmful additives has received praise from some Democrats, including Colorado’s Governor Jared Polis.
Kennedy has also advocated for removing food dyes and other additives that are banned in other countries. He has criticized the FDA for not adequately addressing food safety issues and has pledged to overhaul the agency.
While some public health experts support Kennedy’s efforts to tackle unhealthy food, others have raised concerns about his proposals, such as banning fluoride in drinking water and promoting raw milk consumption. Kennedy’s plans to regulate seed oils and pesticides have also faced criticism from industry groups and lawmakers.
Despite the challenges ahead, Kennedy could potentially make significant changes by leveraging existing regulatory frameworks, such as altering the US Dietary Guidelines. This could have a substantial impact on the food industry and federal nutrition programs.