RFK Jr. says ultraprocessed food manufacturers hijacked GRAS "loophole" to use questionable ingredients

February 16, 2026

TL;DR

Ultraprocessed foods constitute half of the average American diet, contributing to simultaneous obesity and malnutrition.
A 1958 GRAS exemption allows ingredient self-verification by companies, bypassing government safety reviews, with estimates of 4,000-10,000 ingredients used.
Food industry groups like the Consumer Brands Association defend the GRAS process, stating adherence to FDA standards.
Federal farm subsidies for corn and soy are linked to the prevalence of inexpensive, factory-processed foods.
Ultraprocessed foods are blamed for altering metabolism and driving chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
These foods are designed to trigger brain reward circuits, leading to overeating and a lack of fullness.
RFK Jr. has issued dietary guidelines advising against highly processed foods and is considering actions based on a petition to revoke GRAS status for certain ingredients.
Dr. David Kessler likens the public health crisis of ultraprocessed foods to tobacco and is petitioning for stricter oversight.
A lawsuit has been filed against ten ultraprocessed food manufacturers alleging engineered addictive products and hidden risks.

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