How a Former FDA Chief’s Bold Strategy is Redefining America’s Commitment to Health | News Channel 3-12

Dr. David Kessler, a former commissioner of the FDA, is challenging the Trump administration’s approach to food safety. He’s pushing for stricter regulations on ultraprocessed foods by questioning the safety of certain common ingredients like sweeteners and refined flours.

Kessler’s recent petition argues that the FDA can declare these ingredients “not generally recognized as safe,” which could force food companies to rethink their recipes or provide evidence that these additives are safe for consumption. This could lead to a significant shake-up in the food industry.

Marion Nestle, a respected food expert, sees this as a pivotal moment. She believes Kessler’s action could help the FDA define ultraprocessed foods clearly, a necessary first step in creating new regulations.

In Kessler’s view, the current food landscape has changed dramatically since the FDA established its safety standards decades ago. Rates of obesity and diabetes have surged, raising concerns about the long-term impact of these additives on health. According to recent CDC data, nearly 42% of American adults are classified as obese.

Under Kessler’s proposal, companies would have a year to submit evidence proving the safety of their products, shifting the burden of proof back onto the industry. Michael Taylor, a former FDA regulator, supports this move, calling it an important step toward ensuring food safety.

Experts like Christopher Gardner from Stanford University stress that many additives enhance taste and mass production, making it harder for consumers to resist these products. Removing these ingredients could lead to healthier options, though possibly less desirable from a flavor standpoint.

The definitions surrounding ultraprocessed foods can be murky. Kessler’s petition flags refined flours and sugars used widely in the food industry. While experts agree that reducing sugar intake is crucial for public health, tackling additives could lead to a broader shift in how food is produced.

Historical context shows how the FDA has navigated food safety in the past. The GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) standard, introduced in 1958, was initially meant for basic ingredients. However, a 2022 report highlighted that nearly all new chemicals in food have been approved by the industry itself, often bypassing rigorous FDA reviews.

As Kessler’s petition gains attention, it may prompt a reckoning in the food industry. Barry Popkin, a public health expert, emphasizes that this initiative places the industry under pressure to prove their products are safe—a challenging task given the current landscape.

Though Kessler’s approach is bold, it may face resistance from powerful food conglomerates. The outcome of this push for reform could reshape the way we think about food safety and the ingredients in our diets for years to come.

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