Newsom orders crackdown on processed foods as obesity epidemic grows
By isabelle // 2025-01-06
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  • California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order targeting ultra-processed foods to address obesity and chronic health conditions.
  • The order directs state agencies to investigate health risks and recommend actions, including warning labels and reducing harmful additives.
  • Ultra-processed foods, linked to diseases like diabetes and cancer, are a major contributor to America’s obesity epidemic.
  • The order also promotes access to fresh, healthy foods through programs like Medi-Cal and universal school meals.
  • Federal action under Trump and RFK Jr. could complement state efforts, with Kennedy advocating for stricter food industry regulations.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order targeting ultra-processed foods, a growing contributor to America’s obesity epidemic and chronic health conditions. The order, signed on January 3, directs state agencies to investigate the health risks associated with these foods and recommend actions to limit their harm. While Newsom’s policies often leave much to be desired, this initiative is a step in the right direction for public health. The executive order tasks the California Department of Public Health with providing recommendations by April 2025 on how to address the dangers of ultra-processed foods, which are defined as industrial formulations containing chemically modified substances and additives. These foods, including packaged snacks, sugary beverages, and processed meats, are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The order also explores the possibility of warning labels on certain products and initiatives to reduce the purchase of sodas, candies, and other unhealthy items.

A growing health crisis

The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 73% of American adults are overweight or obese, and 38% of children aged 12 to 19 are prediabetic. These staggering statistics highlight the devastating impact of poor nutrition on public health. Ultra-processed foods, laden with synthetic dyes, preservatives, and artificial flavors, are a major culprit. They are designed to be addictive, cheap, and convenient, but their long-term consequences are dire. Newsom’s order also calls for improving access to fresh, healthy foods through programs like Medi-Cal and California’s universal school meals initiative. By connecting farms to schools and banning harmful additives like synthetic dyes, the state is taking meaningful steps to protect its citizens, especially children, from the dangers of processed foods.

A rare win for Newsom

While Newsom’s track record is far from perfect, this executive order is a rare exception. It builds on previous efforts, such as banning synthetic dyes in school foods and restricting sugary beverages in schools. These measures, though incremental, are critical in addressing the root causes of America’s obesity epidemic. However, the real test will be whether these recommendations translate into actionable policies. Warning labels and restrictions on harmful additives are a good start, but more comprehensive reforms are needed to truly transform the food industry. This is where the federal government must step in.

Hope for federal action under Trump and RFK Jr.

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, there is hope that his administration will prioritize public health in a meaningful way. Trump’s pick for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has long been a vocal critic of processed foods. Kennedy’s “Make American Healthy Again” platform includes plans to eliminate harmful chemicals from food, water, and air, and to ensure that all Americans have access to clean, safe, and nutritious food. If confirmed, Kennedy could push the FDA to regulate the food industry more rigorously, banning harmful additives and promoting whole, unprocessed foods. Such reforms would complement Newsom’s efforts and create a healthier future for all Americans. Newsom’s executive order is a small but significant step in the fight against processed foods and the obesity epidemic. It acknowledges the role of government in protecting public health and sets a precedent for other states to follow. However, true progress will require bipartisan cooperation and a commitment to putting people over profits. As we look ahead, let’s hope that leaders like RFK Jr. and Trump build on this momentum to make America healthier. After all, the food we eat shouldn’t make us sick—it should nourish us and help us thrive. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com TheHill.com Reuters.com
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