{
  "id": 16224298,
  "title": "Why experts are pushing RFK Jr. to release a federal definition of ultraprocessed foods",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/23/why-experts-are-pushing-rfk-jr-to-release-a-federal-definition-of",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-23T20:24:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "PBS NewsHour Health",
    "slug": "pbs-newshour-health",
    "url": "https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/why-experts-are-pushing-rfk-jr-to-release-a-federal-definition-of-ultraprocessed-foods"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": null,
  "summary": "Experts are urging RFK Jr. to release a federal definition of ultraprocessed foods due to significant delays in the Trump administration's efforts to address the health risks associated with these products. Over 100 science, medical, and nutrition experts have signed an open letter to the Office of Management and Budget, urging the administration to release the first-ever government definition of ultraprocessed foods (UPF). The letter emphasizes the need for guidance as most Americans are aware of UPF but lack deeper familiarity, signaling a need for clearer definitions. The delay has caused growing frustration within and outside the government, with the resignation of a senior adviser to Kennedy adding pressure to the situation. Ultraprocessed foods, which make up more than 70% of the packaged food supply in the U.S., have been linked to various negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. Establishing a clear, structured definition is seen as crucial for developing effective policies to reduce consumption of these foods and improve public health.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}