RFK Jr. Proposes Food Additive Restrictions, But Critics Say Changes Fall Short

Strengthens US regulatory authority over food industry; may influence international food standards and trade negotiations; positions US differently from EU's stricter additive restrictions; affects leverage in agricultural trade discussions.

Similar to FDA regulatory shifts in 1970s-80s that eventually influenced international food safety standards; comparable to EU's precautionary approach to food additives which created trade friction.

Consumers may face higher food prices due to reformulation costs and stricter ingredient sourcing. However, potential long-term health benefits from reduced additive exposure could lower healthcare costs. Short-term grocery prices likely to increase as manufacturers comply with new regulations.

Regulatory framework shift toward stricter food ingredient oversight; potential for more comprehensive ultra-processed food definitions in future rules; possible international trade implications if standards diverge from global norms; increased compliance costs for food manufacturers may drive consolidation in the industry.