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FDA May Revoke Safety Status of Processed Carbs
16 Feb
Summary
- FDA to review petition challenging safety of processed carbohydrates.
- Health Secretary Kennedy vows action on 'Generally Recognized as Safe' ingredients.
- Former FDA chief seeks to regulate ultra-processed foods like tobacco.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is poised to review a petition that could revoke the safety status of many processed carbohydrates. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the FDA will address a request from former FDA Commissioner David Kessler.
Kessler petitioned last August to remove ingredients like corn syrup and various starches from the 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) list. He argues that the 1958 GRAS classification allows food companies to use ingredients without rigorous government safety reviews, contributing to health problems and obesity.
Secretary Kennedy indicated that closing this regulatory loophole is a priority, stating that consumers currently have no way to ascertain the safety of ultra-processed products. The Consumer Brands Association affirmed their commitment to working with the FDA to enhance ingredient safety analysis and consumer transparency.
Kessler, who previously led efforts to regulate tobacco, aims to apply a similar public health focus to ultra-processed foods. This initiative aligns with recent dietary guideline shifts urging reduced sugar and processed food consumption. Kennedy emphasized the goal is to inform the public rather than immediately impose new regulations.
