Can RFK Jr make America’s diet healthy again?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, aims to reform American dietary habits by targeting ingredients like artificial dyes and seed oils, which he believes harm public health. He has criticized the food industry for "poisoning" children and advocates for eliminating ultra-processed foods, particularly in school lunches. However, implementing such changes would require significant regulatory overhauls and confrontation with powerful food industry interests. Experts, including former New York University nutrition professor Marion Nestle, acknowledge the challenges in taking on the food industry and express skepticism about the administration's support for such initiatives.

Kennedy's nomination is controversial due to his history of promoting unverified health claims, such as linking vaccines to autism and suggesting that Wi-Fi technology causes cancer. While some of his proposals, like banning certain food additives, have garnered bipartisan support, others, such as opposing fluoride in drinking water and advocating for raw milk consumption, are viewed as scientifically unfounded and potentially harmful. If confirmed, Kennedy would oversee agencies like the Food and Drug Administration, which has faced criticism for its handling of food safety. His aggressive stance toward the FDA includes plans to overhaul departments he deems ineffective, but achieving his goals would involve navigating complex regulatory frameworks and overcoming substantial industry resistance.