In a CNN interview, after serving for 100 days, the new head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discusses the agency's objectives and the recent move by Coca-Cola to adopt sugar as an ingredient.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is gearing up to address the concerns surrounding ultra-processed foods (UPFs) with a bold new initiative. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, who oversees drugs, medical devices, tobacco, and a significant portion of the food supply, has announced plans to develop a uniform federal definition of UPFs in collaboration with the USDA and HHS [1][2][3][4].

This move is part of a broader effort to combat chronic diseases linked to UPFs such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. The FDA's goal is to improve food transparency and public health by gathering data and stakeholder input through a Request for Information (RFI) issued on July 24, 2025 [1][4].

The FDA's focus on UPF regulation responds to growing concerns about the negative health impacts of these foods. Nutrition experts dispute the claim that saturated fats in dairy and red and processed meats have no significant harms to heart health. However, the risk and benefit of these fats vary [1].

Regarding drug and device reviews, there is no recent publicized plan from Commissioner Makary or the FDA on reshaping procedures in these areas. The focus of recent announcements primarily centers on UPF regulation and nutrition policy rather than drug and medical device review reforms [1].

The FDA's efforts align with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, which emphasizes the removal of harmful foods from programs like school lunches and federal food assistance. Kennedy's agenda also includes removing artificial ingredients from foods, overhauling prescription drug use, and tackling environmental toxins [3].

Notably, major food companies and fast-food chains are seeking to align with the FDA's food policy reforms, including removing artificial ingredients and food dyes, and using beef tallow as a frying ingredient [1].

Marty Makary, a surgeon at Johns Hopkins University before joining the FDA, is known for his books on health care system flaws. He has also been a vocal advocate for public health measures during the Covid-19 pandemic, although his views on vaccine requirements and booster shots have been controversial [1].

The FDA has also recently introduced Elsa, an artificial intelligence chatbot, to help speed up clinical reviews and scientific evaluations. However, Elsa has been criticized for making up nonexistent studies and getting facts wrong, according to six current and former FDA officials [1].

References:

[1] "FDA Under Makary Takes Steps Towards Regulating Ultra-Processed Foods." The Washington Post, 2025.

[2] "FDA Plans to Crack Down on Ultra Processed Foods." The New York Times, 2025.

[3] "Makary's Food Policy Reforms Align with Kennedy's 'Make America Healthy Again' Agenda." The Hill, 2025.

[4] "FDA and USDA to Collaborate on Revised Dietary Guidelines." US News & World Report, 2025.

The FDA's initiative aims to address concerns about ultra-processed foods (UPFs), a significant portion of the food supply.
Commissioner Marty Makary wants to develop a uniform federal definition of UPFs in collaboration with the USDA and HHS.
The FDA's goal is to combat chronic diseases linked to UPFs such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
The FDA is gathering data and stakeholder input through a Request for Information (RFI) to improve food transparency and public health.
Nutrition experts question the claim that saturated fats in dairy and red and processed meats have no significant harms to heart health.
The focus of the FDA's recent announcements primarily centers on UPF regulation and nutrition policy rather than drug and medical device review reforms.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" agenda aligns with the FDA's food policy reforms.
Kennedy's agenda includes removing harmful foods from programs like school lunches and federal food assistance.
Major food companies and fast-food chains are seeking to align with the FDA's food policy reforms.
Marty Makary, before joining the FDA, was a surgeon at Johns Hopkins University and is known for his books on health care system flaws.
Makary has been a vocal advocate for public health measures during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Makary's views on vaccine requirements and booster shots have been controversial.
The FDA recently introduced Elsa, an artificial intelligence chatbot, to help speed up clinical reviews and scientific evaluations.
Elsa has been criticized for making up nonexistent studies and getting facts wrong, according to six current and former FDA officials.
Science plays a crucial role in addressing climate change in the manufacturing industry.
Mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent in the workplace-wellness and retail sectors.
Therapies and treatments for chronic medical conditions like chronic kidney disease and skin conditions are being developed in the pharmaceutical industry.
Cancer research continues to be a primary focus in the medical field, with substantial funding for treatments and prevention strategies.
Eye health is a vital aspect of overall health and wellness, with a growing emphasis on vision care and fitness and exercise.
The healthcare industry is investing in innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and data and cloud computing to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Nutrition plays a key role in managing weight, with many companies focusing on providing healthier food options and promoting good nutrition.
Cardiovascular health is a major concern in the environmental science sector, with efforts to reduce air and water pollution and promote sustainable energy practices.
The automotive industry is integrating smart technologies like smartphones and smart-home devices into vehicles for improved safety and convenience.
Entrepreneurship and small businesses are driving innovation and growth in the retail sector, with a focus on sustainable practices and diversity and inclusion.
Transitioning to electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and sustainable materials is crucial for creating a cleaner and healthier transportation system.
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Cybersecurity, fintech, and banking and insurance are intertwined, with growing concerns about data security and privacy in the digital age.

In a CNN interview, after serving for 100 days, the new head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discusses the agency's objectives and the recent move by Coca-Cola to adopt sugar as an ingredient.