Story perspectives

New Regulations Target Ultra-Processed Foods for Healthier Future

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to establish a federal definition and labeling for ultra-processed foods (UPFs) by 2025 due to health concerns.
California may become the first state to legally define UPFs, pending Governor Newsom's approval, focusing on school cafeteria foods.
The Non-GMO Project will launch a "Non-UPF Verified" program in fall 2025 to help consumers identify non-ultra-processed products.
A recent NIH study links high UPF consumption to increased cardiovascular disease and mortality risks, with over half of American calories coming from UPFs.
States are increasingly considering regulations and public health campaigns to combat UPF prevalence, particularly among children.

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Story summary

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to establish a federal definition and labeling for ultra-processed foods (UPFs) by 2025 due to health concerns.
California may become the first state to legally define UPFs, pending Governor Newsom's approval, focusing on school cafeteria foods.
The Non-GMO Project will launch a "Non-UPF Verified" program in fall 2025 to help consumers identify non-ultra-processed products.
A recent NIH study links high UPF consumption to increased cardiovascular disease and mortality risks, with over half of American calories coming from UPFs.
States are increasingly considering regulations and public health campaigns to combat UPF prevalence, particularly among children.