FDA Enhances Oversight on Food Safety and Ultra-Processed Foods
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is intensifying its oversight of food ingredients and additives, with a particular focus on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and the generally recognized as safe (GRAS) practices. This initiative, announced by Donald Prater, acting deputy commissioner for food, aims to reform current regulations to better regulate food safety and increase transparency about substances in the U.S. food supply. The FDA plans to conduct a rigorous review of food additives, remove petroleum-based dyes, and promote the use of natural food dyes. The agency is also reorganizing its Human Foods Program to enhance its focus on microbiological food safety, food chemical safety, and nutrition. This reorganization is intended to improve information sharing and decision-making processes. The FDA's efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce diet-related chronic diseases by empowering consumers with better nutritional information. 
