FDA proposes mandatory food additive notification

On Monday, the U.S. United States — Food and Drug Administration proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify the agency before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal aims to close a decades-old 'GRAS' loophole that currently allows companies to self-certify ingredients as safe without notifying the FDA. Under the new rule, companies would submit safety rationale for new ingredients, and the FDA would have 180 days to review and potentially request more information or delay introduction. The FDA also announced it has completed work on the federal government's first-ever definition of ultraprocessed food, which has been submitted to the United States — White House for review. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed both initiatives, vowing to crack down on artificial colors and additives, and said the administration would ask Congress to grant the FDA additional powers. Consumer advocacy groups, including the Environmental Working Group and the Center for Science in the Public Interest, welcomed the proposal but called for stronger safety standards and independent review. The FDA will accept public comments for 120 days.