What qualifies as “ultra-processed foods”? MAHA researchers want a final definition

Researchers with the Make America Healthy Again Commission say clearer definitions are needed before they can further study ultra-processed foods.

They want a formal definition of what qualifies as an ultra-processed food. The MAHA advisory panel of nutritionists says progress is stalled without one. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says USDA will help in the effort to define those foods.

Secretary Kennedy has advocated for more research, saying ultra-processed foods contribute to chronic disease in the United States.

Related Stories
Sen. Roger Marshall joins us in honor of National Ag Day to share legislative updates, highlight key policy victories, and initiatives supporting farmers and rural communities he is championing in Washington.
New guidance supports transparency, consumer trust, and American ranchers
Nutrition policy shifts may influence retail demand across agriculture.
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States and the importance of vaccination awareness on this week’s Rural Health Matters.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

ASFMRA’s Tony Toso joins us with an update on California farmland values, ongoing market uncertainty, and key discussions shaping agriculture in the Golden State.
Dr. Gold encouraged farmers and ranchers to prioritize eye safety in their daily routines, offering his expertise to help reduce risks on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Dave Duquette, founder of Western Justice, joined us to discuss wolf management, rancher concerns, efforts to return control to the states, and his upcoming documentary, “Wolves: True Conflict.”
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy and under the Clean Air Act, approved the temporary measure to help stabilize fuel supplies and reduce costs for consumers.
AFBF Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Isabella Chism joined us to discuss Ag Day planning, community involvement, and supporting the future of agriculture.
EPA Administrator Scott Mason shares updates on farm equipment regulations, regional accomplishments, and federal efforts supporting agriculture in honor of National Ag Day.