On May 14, 2025, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a significant initiative to prioritize research on ultra-processed foods, sugars, and the approximately 10,000 additives present in the American food supply. This directive, unveiled during a Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions hearing, tasks the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with leading the effort to better understand the impact of these substances on public health.

"We are committed to comprehensively examining how ultra-processed foods and their additives contribute to the rising incidence of chronic diseases in our nation," Kennedy stated. "This research will inform future regulatory actions and public health initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of all Americans."

Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations that typically contain little or no whole foods and are often laden with additives such as preservatives, sweeteners, colorants, and flavor enhancers. Studies have linked high consumption of these foods to increased risks of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. A systematic review published in the British Medical Journal in 2024 found that higher intake of ultra-processed foods was associated with a 50% increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death and a 12% greater risk of type 2 diabetes.

In addition to prioritizing research, Secretary Kennedy announced that new U.S. dietary guidelines will be released before August 2025. These guidelines will be significantly condensed to just four pages, emphasizing the importance of consuming whole foods. This initiative is part of Kennedy’s broader effort to reform America’s food system, despite his department's limited authority over food policy, which is primarily managed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The focus on ultra-processed foods is part of a broader strategy to address the rising incidence of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, which have been associated with dietary factors. By prioritizing this research, the NIH and FDA aim to provide a scientific basis for potential policy changes and public health recommendations.

This development is significant for stakeholders in the food industry, public health officials, and consumers, as it may lead to changes in food regulations, labeling, and dietary guidelines. The food industry, which has historically wielded immense political influence and successfully thwarted previous efforts to regulate its products or marketing, may face increased scrutiny and potential regulatory changes.

Public health experts have expressed support for the initiative. Dr. JoAnn Manson, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, stated, "Our study provides strong evidence that ultra-processed foods are linked to cardiovascular disease. This initiative is a crucial step toward addressing the public health crisis posed by these foods."

The forthcoming research and dietary guidelines have the potential to influence public health policies, industry practices, and consumer behaviors, aiming to reduce the prevalence of diet-related chronic diseases.