Regulatory Policy to Address Ultraprocessed Foods

This perspective examines the health risks of ultraprocessed foods (UPF), defined by the Nova classification system as industrially formulated products containing additives and altered ingredients. UPF consumption is linked to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic conditions due to altered nutrient absorption, harmful additives, and aggressive marketing. The article reviews global policy responses (e.g., taxes, labeling, school meal bans) and proposes U.S. regulatory actions, including taxation, front of package warnings, and stricter food safety reviews. It advocates for exemptions for minimally processed UPF (e.g., whole grain or vegetable-based products) and aligns with the FDA’s 2024 "healthy" labeling rule. The author argues that evidence warrants urgent policy interventions to reduce UPF consumption and incentivize healthier food production.

This perspective examines the health risks of ultraprocessed foods (UPF), defined by the Nova classification system as industrially formulated products containing additives and altered ingredients. UPF consumption is linked to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic conditions due to altered nutrient absorption, harmful additives, and aggressive marketing. The article reviews global policy responses (e.g., taxes, labeling, school meal bans) and proposes U.S. regulatory actions, including taxation, front of package warnings, and stricter food safety reviews. It advocates for exemptions for minimally processed UPF (e.g., whole grain or vegetable-based products) and aligns with the FDA’s 2024 "healthy" labeling rule. The author argues that evidence warrants urgent policy interventions to reduce UPF consumption and incentivize healthier food production.