Kennedy Jr. wants to change the rules for food

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will consider revoking the safety status of dozens of processed carbohydrates unless manufacturers can prove that they do not contribute to obesity and chronic diseases. This was announced by Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in response to a petition from former FDA chief David Kessler.

Kessler wants to remove corn syrup and other sweeteners and starches from the list of substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS). According to Kennedy, the 1958 system allows companies to assess the safety of ingredients without proper government oversight, which he is now trying to change. However, he is awaiting approval from the White House.

The food industry argues that it operates according to FDA scientific standards and is prepared to negotiate greater transparency.

Kessler, who has fought against tobacco in the past, argues that ultra-processed foods deserve similar treatment today.

(reuters, pir)