Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is ready to revolutionize America’s approach to health and nutrition. As President-elect Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Kennedy is taking aim at harmful ingredients in everyday foods—from food dyes in cereals to unhealthy oils in fast food. This bold move is a cornerstone of Trump’s administration’s commitment to putting the health of Americans first.
“We are betraying our children by letting [food] industries poison them,” Kennedy declared during a rally in November. This rally came after Kennedy ended his independent presidential bid to endorse Trump, a clear indication of the unified vision for a healthier America. Kennedy’s selection signals a new era of accountability for Big Food and a commitment to empowering American families to make healthier choices.
While some skeptics may raise eyebrows at Kennedy’s past stances on health issues, his focus on reforming food regulations has drawn support from across the political spectrum. Notably, Democratic Colorado Governor Jared Polis praised Kennedy, stating he could “help make America healthy again” by leading the charge at the DHHS and FDA. Polis later clarified his support, emphasizing that science must underpin health policy, an approach Trump’s administration wholeheartedly backs.
Making America Healthy Again
Under his slogan “Make America Healthy Again,” Kennedy is championing solutions to tackle chronic diseases. These solutions include eliminating ultra-processed foods like sugary cereals, frozen pizzas, and other harmful products. His focus on reforming school lunches is especially important, as he told Fox News, “We have a generation of kids swimming around in a toxic soup right now.”
Kennedy also plans to overhaul the FDA, an agency with over 18,000 employees that oversees food and pharmaceutical safety. Labeling the current system as “corrupt,” Kennedy has pledged to remove inefficiencies and fire staff he believes are failing to protect public health. Specific targets include banning food dyes like Red No. 3 and tackling the rampant use of harmful seed oils in fast food.
What the Experts Say
Public health experts agree with Kennedy’s focus on ultra-processed foods, which are linked to chronic health issues like cancer and diabetes. Even former FDA officials like Dr. Peter Lurie support the removal of certain food dyes, calling them unnecessary and potentially carcinogenic. “It’s thrilling to hear somebody argue for doing something about chronic disease,” said nutrition expert Marion Nestle.
However, not all of Kennedy’s proposals are without controversy. His advocacy for raw milk and his critique of fluoride in drinking water have sparked debate. Despite these concerns, his larger mission to challenge industry practices resonates with Americans frustrated by the current health crisis.
Taking on Big Food
Critics, including industry insiders, argue that Kennedy’s bold plans face significant challenges. Regulating ultra-processed foods, for instance, falls under the jurisdiction of both the FDA and USDA. Yet, Kennedy’s proposals have already shaken up the status quo, with food industry lobbyists scrambling to push back against his nomination. Despite this, Trump’s administration has signaled its readiness to stand up to corporate interests in favor of public health.
Republican lawmakers are also engaging with Kennedy’s ideas. Senator Chuck Grassley has vowed to work closely with him to balance health priorities with the needs of American agriculture. Kennedy’s willingness to tackle tough issues is a clear signal that he’s ready to fight for the American people.
A Pathway to Change
While some of Kennedy’s ideas may require time and negotiation, he has options for immediate impact. For instance, altering the US Dietary Guidelines to emphasize healthier food choices could shift the industry and improve school lunches. These guidelines are reviewed every five years, giving Kennedy a direct opportunity to influence policy.
Kennedy’s determination, paired with President Trump’s bold leadership, represents a turning point for health policy in America. Together, they aim to prioritize the well-being of citizens over corporate profits. As Jeff Hutt from the Make America Healthy Again PAC stated, “Even if banning ultra-processed food is not politically feasible, it’s a conversation we need to have.”
With Kennedy at the helm of the DHHS, the Trump administration is poised to deliver real change, holding Big Food accountable and putting Americans’ health first. The road ahead may be challenging, but under Trump’s leadership, the vision of a healthier America is within reach.
