In December 2024, Martinez vs. Kraft Heinz et al, targeted 11 major food companies with allegations that they were intentionally putting addictive ingredients into foods to entice consumers to eat and buy more of their products.

This panel will unpack the implications of this lawsuit in a possible RFK Jr.- led agency and explore the scope of “ultra-processed” food in today’s changing regulatory environment. Ultra-processed foods—what are they, and how are they identified?

• Exploring the findings of discussions between the FDA and NIH on ultra-processed foods—what are the implications of these talks in the current environment?
• How does an RFK confirmation impact the proposed regulations on “ultra-processed” foods?
• Assessing the “ultra-processed foods” landscape through an international lens – what is happening across the globe?
• Canada
• The UK
• Mexico
• The European Union
• Analyzing trends and data related to vegan ultra-processed foods
• Examining “ultra-processed” under Front of Pack and healthy labeling