RFK Jr. Lashes Out At Dunkin' And Starbucks, Demanding Proof Iced Coffee Products Are “Safe” – CoffeeTalk

Trump-appointed Health Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. outlined alleged initiatives to “improve” America’s food supply, including potentially banning certain ingredients. A key focus was on beverages from chains like Dunkin’ and Starbucks, where Kennedy challenged their safety data on high-sugar drinks, particularly a teenage girl consuming iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar. This statement has raised questions about whether the administration will indeed implement such restrictions, as no official stance has been communicated by the Health and Human Services Department.

Kennedy’s agenda aligns with longstanding calls for reform in the “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) system, which has expanded to include thousands of ingredients in ultra-processed foods, straying from its original intent designed for common, benign items like vinegar and salt. A proposal to tighten this approval process is reportedly under White House review. At the same time, a petition by David Kessler, a former FDA commissioner, advocates for revoking the safety recognition of refined carbohydrates and sweeteners, suggesting they require new safety evaluations.

Kennedy’s adviser, Calley Means, pointed out that food companies are legally required to demonstrate the safety of their ingredients. However, the specific Dunkin’ products referenced by Kennedy remain unclear, though some beverages contain significant sugar amounts. Legal and nutrition experts acknowledge the validity of regulating high-sugar drinks, albeit noting that substantial regulatory requirements and resources may be necessary, which the administration has yet to demonstrate.

Kennedy’s stance on food and sugar has been inconsistent; while he labels sugar-laden products as harmful, he has also dined on fast-food items and occasionally praises companies like Coca-Cola for using cane sugar. He emphasizes informed choices rather than outright restrictions on ultra-processed foods. In particular, he has condemned high-sugar diets among children and cited updated federal guidelines against added sugars for children under 11 years old, insisting that addressing the chronic disease epidemic is essential to alleviating healthcare costs in the U.S. Kennedy concluded his remarks by asserting the urgency of rectifying the situation for future generations.

Read More @ Boston Globe