CHICAGO, July 25, 2025 — The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration, and Agriculture have issued a joint Request for Information seeking public input on defining ultra-processed foods (UPF), highlighting concerns about their potential health impacts and the need for a consistent definition. This initiative aims to gather feedback on classification criteria, terminology, and policy integration, which could influence research, federal regulations, industry practices, and public health messaging regarding UPFs.
Overview - Yesterday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a joint Request for Information (RFI). They are asking for public feedback on how to define ultra-processed foods (UPF). The public has 60 days to submit comments, with the deadline set for September 23, 2025.
This is the first time the U.S. government is formally trying to define UPF. As noted within the MAHA initial report, the government is concerned that eating UPF may be linked to poor health, more food additives and increased caloric intake and overall lower diet quality.
The agencies provided examples of UPF definitions used in other countries and those proposed at the state level (e.g., California). They are seeking input on various aspects of defining UPF, including ingredient types, amounts, processing methods, and labeling practices. The agencies have raised numerous questions they seek input on by the public including the relevance of existing classification systems, if "ultra-processed" is the right terminology, and how a regulatory definition could be used in federal policy.
The impact of creating a formal definition of UPF could unify research efforts but also impact future policies including dietary guidelines, federal feeding programs such as school meals and food assistance programs, and public health messaging, including any recommendations on restricting intake of UPF. This will impact the food industry as companies will need to assess their product portfolio and address potential reformulation of current and future products as well as marketing of products.
Dr. Joy Dubost is a frequent source for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, and NPR, among others. She has testified a number of times before Congressional committees on health and science-related issues. The Florida resident earned her doctorate at Penn State and a master’s in food science from the University of Georgia. Her undergraduate degree is in food science from Hood College.
Stay informed with our new page tracking key federal and state policies impacting food-away-from-home. Get timely updates on issues like ultra-processed food definitions and submit feedback to ensure our industry’s voice is heard.
Regulatory & Legislative Developments