Full Breakdown
Push for a Federal Definition of Ultraprocessed Foods Gains Momentum Amid Industry Pushback
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Experts Urge Release of First Government Definition
More than 100 scientists, medical professionals and nutrition researchers signed an open letter to the Office of Management and Budget, demanding that the administration publish a federal definition of ultraprocessed foods (UPF). The letter, submitted in early August, follows months of delays after the Trump administration announced an effort to define UPF in July 2025. The resignation of Calley Means, a senior adviser to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., intensified concerns that industry pressure is stalling the initiative.
Background & Context
Since taking office, Secretary Kennedy has framed the reduction of UPF consumption as central to his “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, linking the foods to childhood obesity and the broader chronic-disease epidemic. The definition effort builds on the NOVA classification system, created in 2009 by Brazilian researchers, which categorizes foods by the extent of industrial processing. In August, the Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture submitted a draft definition for final review, but lobbying from major food-company executives has slowed progress.
Data & Statistics
- UPF products—ranging from sugary cereals to burgers and store-bought breads—constitute more than 70 % of the packaged food supply in the United States.
- A February 2024 study in *Nutrients* found that roughly three-quarters of infant and toddler foods meet the ultraprocessed criteria.
- A 2025 analysis reported that 47 % to 59 % of calories consumed by school-age children and toddlers come from ultraprocessed foods.
- Epidemiological research links high UPF intake to cardiovascular disease, obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
Official Statements & Responses
- Petition organizers addressed the letter to Russell Vought, the OMB director, emphasizing that a clear definition is a prerequisite for effective policy.
- Agency officials have indicated that a finalized definition could be released in August, pending resolution of industry objections.
Criticism & Opposition
- Food-blogger Vani Hari (the “Food Babe”) argued that “the ultra-processed food definition is being held up by the White House and it’s clear that special interests and corporate capture are preventing common-sense initiatives.”
- Unnamed industry executives have reportedly intervened to delay the definition, fearing potential litigation and increased costs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If industry pressure can delay even this first step toward greater transparency, what does that tell us about the challenges of making meaningful improvements to our food supply?” — Ashley Gearhardt, University of Michigan
- “Sophisticated legal roadblocks and political shenanigans designed to appease corporate interests have made progress nearly impossible,” — Kelly Ryerson, MAHA activist
What’s Next
The petition remains open for signatures until Friday. A meeting that was to include Means, Secretary Kennedy and senior White House officials was postponed, delaying direct dialogue on the definition. Advocates expect the administration to move forward with the August release once the pending meeting is reconvened and industry objections are addressed.