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A coalition of 16 free-market organizations is urging the White House to block the Trump administration's effort to create a federal definition for ultra-processed foods. The groups argue the move would raise grocery costs, confuse consumers, and expose businesses to more lawsuits. It's the latest sign of a growing rift within the GOP over health and nutrition policy.
Sixteen free-market and consumer advocacy organizations are pushing back against the Trump administration's push to define "ultra-processed foods" at the federal level. In a letter shared first with Axios, the groups — including Independent Women, the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council, and Consumer Action for a Strong Economy — urged White House budget director Russell Vought to block the effort entirely.
The organizations argue the science doesn't support a blanket definition, and that a federal standard would drive up grocery costs through reformulation and repackaging, confuse shoppers, and open businesses to a wave of new litigation. They also warn it would add to an already complex patchwork of state-level labeling and ingredient mandates.
Key Takeaways:
Why it matters: This debate could shape how the U.S. food system is regulated for years to come — affecting everything from product labeling to what ends up on grocery store shelves.
