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Americans are putting aside political divisions to demand strict regulations on ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Experts warn that these foods are linked to a wide range of health issues including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and — — dementia and are urging both the government and the food industry to take immediate action.

 

Americans Demand Regulation of Ultra-Processed Foods

 

Recent surveys show that Americans are increasingly questioning how their food is manufactured, marketed, and regulated. "Families are asking critical questions about how food is made and regulated, and they are looking for ways to be part of the change," explained Ashley Gearhardt, a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan and the lead author of the study. In response, researchers have launched the "Fed UP!" campaign, aimed at raising public awareness about UPFs and fostering a healthier food environment. The campaign provides research data, videos, and educational content, while empowering citizens to demand stricter regulations from local politicians and school officials.

 

Regulation Is Already Way Overdue

 

Laura Schmidt, a health policy expert at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), argues that regulations on ultra-processed foods should have been implemented years ago. "It has been 17 years since we pushed for the first sugary drink tax in the U.S. in 2009, but very little meaningful change has occurred," Schmidt pointed out. "There is still a lack of regulation on chemical additives in UPFs, low transparency in the manufacturing process, and a complete absence of consumer warning labels."

Experts note that the U.S. is lagging behind other nations, particularly in Latin America, which have aggressively introduced front-of-package warning labels, advertising restrictions, and tax policies. The Power of Industry Lobbying Experts point to the massive lobbying budgets of the ultra-processed food industry as the biggest barrier to passing regulations. According to research, between 1999 and 2020, ultra-processed food companies spent approximately $1.15 billion on lobbying. This significantly outpaces the lobbying expenditures of other major industries during the same period