Federal agencies work to create uniform definition of ultra-processed foods

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration are collaborating to establish a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods.

The agencies have announced a joint Request for Information (RFI) to be published in the Federal Register to seek input on factors and criteria that should be included in the definition.

The objective of the uniform definition is to enhance transparency for consumers regarding the foods they consume and to ensure consistency in research and policy efforts addressing health issues related to ultra-processed foods.

“The threats posed to our health by foods often considered ultra-processed are clear and convincing, making it imperative that we work in collaboration with our federal partners to advance a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods,” stated FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H.

According to the FDA, approximately 70% of packaged food products in the U.S. fall under the category of ultra-processed, with 60% of children’s caloric intake coming from these foods. The FDA also highlights numerous studies linking ultra-processed foods to adverse health outcomes like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, obesity, and neurological disorders.

In May, the FDA and National Institutes of Health unveiled the Nutrition Regulatory Science Program to delve deeper into the health impacts of ultra-processed foods through collaborative research efforts.

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