FDA and USDA Submit Proposed Definition for Ultra Processed Foods

The US Food and Drug Administration and the US Department of Agriculture have submitted the first proposed federal definition of ultra processed foods to the Office of Management and Budget for review, the National Law Review reported. The agencies submitted the proposal following a joint request for information issued in July 2025. Regulators sought data at that time to help establish a uniform definition for the food category. [1]

Federal agencies described the new proposed definition as a research tool rather than a direct regulatory mandate. According to the National Law Review, the agencies stated that a standardized definition will allow for consistency across scientific research and policy initiatives. The framework is also intended to pave the way for addressing public health concerns related to food processing. [1]

Although the proposed definition is formally designated for research purposes, its publication is expected to carry practical legal and commercial implications. The National Law Review reported that the release will likely raise questions regarding how policymakers, regulatory bodies, and litigants might utilize the standard in future actions. [1]