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RFK Jr. and Kessler fight against ultra-processed food's GRAS status

Feb 21, 2026, 10:00 AM20
(Update: Feb 23, 2026, 9:17 AM)
agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services
American attorney and anti-vaccine activist (born 1954)
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RFK Jr. and Kessler fight against ultra-processed food's GRAS status

  • RFK Jr. and Dr. Kessler are advocating for health reforms targeting ultra-processed foods.
  • They criticize the GRAS designation allowing manufacturers to self-regulate food safety.
  • Their campaign highlights the need for a cultural shift towards healthier whole-food choices.
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In recent months, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary, alongside former FDA commissioner Dr. David Kessler, have taken a strong stance against ultra-processed foods in the United States. They assert that ultraprocessed products, which are made with numerous artificial ingredients and chemicals, are contributing significantly to the nation's health crisis. Kennedy highlights that about 70% of the food consumed in America falls into this category, calling many products 'food-like substances' and even 'poison.' Kessler supports this viewpoint, proposing that these products be studied further to understand their metabolic effects on the body and potentially lead to legislative action. The duo's advocacy is rooted in their discontent with the 1958 Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) designation, which permits food manufacturers to self-decide the safety of their products. They argue that this system has led to rampant use of questionable ingredients, as manufacturers exploit this loophole without adequate regulation. RFK Jr. and Kessler are calling for Congress to hold bipartisan hearings that would shed light on the practices of food manufacturers and assess the health implications of their products. Their efforts align with the broader 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) movement aimed at emphasizing whole-food alternatives—foods sourced naturally rather than produced in labs. Recently, they released a viral video encouraging Americans to adopt healthier lifestyles through increased fitness and improved diets. Kid Rock collaborated with Kennedy in this initiative, emphasizing that the fight for health should transcend political divisions. Together, they envision a cultural reset that prioritizes physical health and wellbeing, which could potentially address the nation's alarming rates of obesity and related health issues. The movement’s necessity is underscored by the alarming statistics reported by the World Health Organization, which estimates nearly 1 billion people globally are obese, attributing a significant portion of this problem to the consumption of ultra-processed foods. The pressure and attention brought by Kennedy and Kessler signal a growing awareness and desire for systemic change within the food industry, aiming to improve public health and redefine food safety standards responsibly.

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