Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Aims to Revamp America’s Eating Habits

by Madeline Halpert, BBC News, New York | 17 February 2024
Forget the ketchup; it’s time to take aim at the food coloring!

In a bold and colorful move that could shake up the culinary landscape of America, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed head of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is on a mission to tackle ultra-processed foods, food dyes, and additives that he believes are doing a disservice to American children—and let’s be honest, their parents too! After all, nobody wants a generation swimming in a “toxic soup,” especially not one loaded with high fructose corn syrup.

Health Concerns and Controversies

Kennedy, known for his outspoken views and a history of controversial health claims (remember when he thought Wi-Fi causes cancer? Yeah, that was a wild ride), has set his sights on reforming what fuels our outsized appetites. “We are betraying our children by letting [food] industries poison them,” he declared at a rally after he embraced Trump and wrapped up his independent presidential bid. And when it comes to what kids are munching on at school lunches—think frozen pizzas and sugary cereals—Kennedy is hungry for change!

But Kennedy’s plate is more than full: to tackle junk food, he’ll need to wrestle with the big players in the food industry—better known as “Big Food.” Let’s hope he brought a fork to this food fight.

Will Trump Be His Wingman?

On the political barbecue—where agendas can clash harder than ketchup and mustard—some remain skeptical. Former NYC nutrition professor Marion Nestle remarked, “What he’s suggesting is taking on the food industry. Will Trump back him up on that? I’ll believe it when I see it.” That’s like saying, “Will hot dogs ever leave the grill?” They just keep coming!

Nevertheless, a few Democrats have thrown some condiments in his favor. Colorado’s Democratic Governor Jared Polis cheered Kennedy’s nomination on social media, suggesting he could “help make America healthy again.” But, he later reminded followers that “science must remain THE cornerstone of our nation’s health policy.” Talk about trying to avoid being grilled!

The FDA Under Fire

Kennedy is set to oversee the FDA, which already has over 18,000 employees—enough to make even a team of nutritionists yawn. The FDA, responsible for ensuring food safety and regulating pharmaceuticals, has faced scrutiny for its lack of transparency. Kennedy is promising no nonsense: “There are entire departments, like the nutrition department at the FDA… that have to go,” he told MSNBC. Sounds like he’s ready to bring the sledgehammer—let’s just hope he doesn’t end up breaking any eggs.

His ambitious plan includes pushing for bans on dubious food dyes, including the infamous Red No. 3, and tackling the very qualities that make American fast food—well, fast food. He’s dived right into the deep fryer by claiming that seed oils might be poisoning unsuspecting Americans. But give him a break; sometimes, you have to take a crack at the shell to find the yolk of the issue!

Expert Opinions: Splitting the Bread

Kennedy’s objective of eliminating ultra-processed foods has rallied several public health advocates, but the scientific community isn’t uniform in its support. While some experts laud his intentions, pointing out that American consumption of ultra-processed foods is through the roof (or perhaps through the kitchen window), others have pointed out that his methods may be stirring the pot too much.

Dr. Peter Lurie from the Center for Science in the Public Interest indicated that several food dyes may need to be re-evaluated due to their carcinogenic potential. However, he qualified that some of Kennedy’s wild claims—like the supposed dangers of raw milk—might just be a tad cheesy (pun intended!).

Fluoride in drinking water? More like a slippery slope! Removing it could hurt dental health, according to experts, leaving a cavity at the heart of Kennedy’s plans. And about the notion that seed oils are to blame for obesity—Dr. Lurie says, “We see no evidence for that,” effectively serving olive oil back to Kennedy on a platter.

Upping the Ante on Big Food?

Kennedy’s proposals already have the food industry buzzing louder than a blender on high speed. Initiatives like banning pesticides or genetically modified organisms are bound to meet some major pushback, as they’ve been hitting grocery shelves for decades. Talk about trying to shake up the status quo!

Jeff Hutt, from the Make America Healthy Again PAC, remains optimistic, asserting that even if legislative changes prove to be a tough nut to crack, initiating "the conversation" is half the battle won. But will there be any leftovers when it comes to regulatory frameworks?

The Path Ahead

Kennedy is optimistic about improving America’s food systems without needing to stir the pot too vigorously. Recommendations for altering US Dietary Guidelines could indeed reshape food policy. Whether he can slice through the administrative red tape (or yellow tape, if we’re talking about additives) remains to be seen.

Ultimately, while the food fight is just heating up, the protocol is clear: Healthy changes could come, but let’s make sure the rest of the ingredients aren’t getting burnt in the process. After all, the goal is to serve up better options, not just create another recipe for disaster!

So, as Kennedy takes the culinary reins at the DHHS, we wait with bated breath (and hopefully a side of broccoli). Will he be America’s health hero, or just the man who burnt the toast? Stay tuned; it’s going to be one appetizing ride!

RFK Jr. Aims for Major Changes in U.S. Food Policy as Health Secretary