Consumer Brands Raises Concerns Over Flawed Attempt at Defining “Ultra-Processed” Food

ARLINGTON, Va. - The Consumer Brands Association released a statement today from Rhonda Bentz, executive vice president of public affairs, raising serious concerns with the federal government's attempt to define "ultra-processed" food, warning that any so-called definition lacks a sound scientific foundation and will create consumer confusion and increase grocery costs for American families.

"America's packaged food supply is safe and has been a staple in American households for decades. That's something that a guidance document, crafted without credible experts cannot change. Any so-called definition that captures 80% of the nation's food supply while picking winners and losers is fundamentally flawed, not based on sound science and politically motivated. Further, substituting rhetoric for real policy is not a serious attempt at addressing public health concerns and will, instead, create widespread consumer confusion and increase grocery costs. President Trump has taken numerous critical steps to keep prices low that our industry has welcomed, and it is unfortunate that some rogue unelected bureaucrats are trying to push this misguided definition without his knowledge. We are confident that this definition won't move forward once the President is made aware of it and the disastrous consequences it will have on his affordability agenda."

The Consumer Brands Association champions the industry that makes the products you choose and the brands you trust. From household and personal care to food and beverage products, the consumer packaged goods industry plays a vital role in powering the U.S. economy, contributing $2.5 trillion to U.S. GDP and supporting 22.3 million American jobs.