Inside RFK Jr’s conflicted attempt to rid America of junk food:
‘Maha’ promised to tackle ultra-processed foods – but is it hijacking the food movement instead?
theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/08/rfk-jr-junk-food
Photo: theguardian.com · view article
RFK Jr’s Junk-Food Agenda Meets Policy ContradictionsA May Maha commission report put the share of children’s calories from ultra-processed foods at nearly 70%.
Key FactsJul 10, 2025 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: theguardian.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: theguardian.com
- At his confirmation hearing, Robert F Kennedy Jr called ultra-processed foods poisonous and the main cause of America’s chronic disease epidemic.
- A May Maha commission report said nearly 70% of children’s calories came from ultra-processed foods and faced criticism over its citations.
- The FDA asked companies voluntarily to stop using six dyes and banned two others; six states received SNAP waivers for junk-food restrictions.
- In March, Trump’s agriculture department cut previously approved grants for local school food and gardens; nutrition experts viewed this as conflicting with Maha’s goals.
Ultra-processed foods are poison.— Robert F. Kennedy Jr., during his confirmation hearings to become head of the Department of Health and Human Services.
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