National Pork Producers Urge FDA to Rethink “Ultra-Processed Foods” Definition
Photo by Sxanghai Joe on Unsplash
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has voiced significant concerns regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) forthcoming definition of “ultra-processed foods.” Their comments, submitted ahead of the upcoming release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, aim to ensure that the new classification system does not negatively impact consumers of pork and other nutrient-dense food products.
The NPPC’s recommendations to the FDA are designed to promote a science-based approach that prioritizes nutrition and public health over overly simplistic processing categories. Their proposed guidance includes the following:
“Not classify food as ultra-processed simply because it does not fit into one of three categories (out of four) of the problematic NOVA classification system. Such a sorting focuses on the processing of foods rather than the nutritional benefits. Not categorize food as ultra-processed that contains ingredients that enhance food safety, shelf stability, and nutrient availability. Such ingredients protect public health and allow nutrient dense foods to reach consumers. Ensure an ultra-processed foods definition does not conflict with FDA’s Standards of Identity regulations, which detail what specific foods must contain, the amount or proportion of ingredients or components, and, sometimes, the method of production or formulation.”
According to the NPPC, there is no global or scientific consensus on what constitutes an “ultra-processed food.” They warn that the use of such a label could lead to confusion among consumers and undermine trust in safe, nutritious, and responsibly produced food products — including pork.
To promote clearer communication, the NPPC suggests that the FDA adopt a more accurate and nutrition-focused term:
The NPPC also points out that there is no consensus on what an “ultra-processed food” is and recommends that the FDA use a term such as “discretionary foods” for those food products considered lower nutritional quality, placing the conversation back on nutrition to address diet-related chronic disease in the US.
By reframing the discussion around nutritional value rather than processing methods, the NPPC believes regulators can better align with the broader goals of improving public health, supporting transparent labeling, and maintaining consumer confidence in U.S. agricultural products.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.