Meet MAHA: The Controversial Junk Food and Seed Oil Lobbyist Set to Influence USDA Policies

On his inauguration day, President Trump announced a new plan to “Make America Healthy Again.” However, shortly after, he appointed Kailee Tkacz Buller, a long-time advocate for junk food, as chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This raised some eyebrows among health advocates.

Tkacz Buller has a rich history in food lobbying. Before returning to the USDA, she led organizations like the National Oilseed Processors Association and the Edible Oil Producers Association. These groups represent the interests of companies that produce seed oils, such as canola and soybean oil. Many health experts warn these oils could be linked to health issues like obesity and diabetes. In fact, critics argue that Americans are consuming these unhealthy oils without even knowing the risks.

The Corn Refiners Association, where Tkacz Buller previously worked, promotes ingredients commonly found in junk food, such as high-fructose corn syrup. Well-known companies like Archer Daniels Midland and Cargill are members. These ingredients often boost the calorie content of processed foods. During her time as a lobbyist for this group, she worked on various food policies related to nutrition and trade.

Before her stint with the corn refiners, Tkacz Buller represented SNAC International, a trade association for snack foods. This group includes big names like PepsiCo and Hershey’s, showing her strong ties to the processed food industry.

In 2017, after joining the USDA, she continued meeting with industry representatives. Emails show she welcomed discussions with lobbyists from the very organizations she used to represent. For example, she arranged a lunch with a Cargill lobbyist just a month after starting her role.

Health advocates remain concerned about how these connections may impact U.S. dietary guidelines, particularly when it comes to the consumption of unhealthy fats and sugars. As Americans face rising health challenges, the choices made by those in power are scrutinized more than ever.