Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: “We Are Being Poisoned Without Knowing It”

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McDonald’s fries in the United States contain up to 11 ingredients, while in Europe and Canada, they use only 3 basic ingredients. This is a prime example of the differences in food regulations between countries, showing that American consumers may be consuming more chemical additives than necessary. In a Senate hearing on the role of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. strongly addressed the issue of ultra-processed foods and the lack of transparency in the U.S. food industry.

He emphasized that many chemicals used in food in the U.S. are banned in other countries but remain widespread due to a lack of strict oversight. For example, artificial colorings like Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6 – found in breakfast cereals like Kellogg’s Froot Loops – have been banned in many European countries due to their potential link to behavioral disorders and cancer risks. A 2021 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that some common food additives could affect the endocrine system and increase the risk of metabolic disorders.

Kennedy also pointed out that the obesity rate in the U.S. has surged from 3% in the 1960s to 74% today, and he believes ultra-processed foods are a major cause. Notably, many preservatives and artificial flavorings allowed in the U.S. have not been fully tested for their long-term health effects. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023 warned that diets containing excessive amounts of ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

“We are consuming a variety of chemicals without any research proving that they are safe in the long term. This is not a choice, but rather a large-scale experiment on the entire population.” – Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Not stopping at just raising awareness, Kennedy also offered specific proposals to address this issue. He does not advocate for an outright ban on ultra-processed foods but emphasizes community education and tighter regulations on food additives. He proposed eliminating harmful preservatives from foods for children, improving school meal standards, and requiring food companies to be more transparent about product ingredients.

To reduce health risks, nutrition experts recommend that consumers prioritize fresh, minimally processed foods and carefully check product labels before purchasing. A 2022 report from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) showed that reducing the consumption of foods containing artificial colorings can help improve behavior in young children and reduce inflammation in the body.

The question arises: If other countries can limit harmful chemical additives, why does the U.S. continue to allow their use? The answer may lie in the economic interests of the ultra-processed food industry, a market worth over 1.5 trillion USD globally. Kennedy calls for change not only from the government but also from consumers themselves, who can exert pressure by choosing smarter foods and demanding transparency from food manufacturers.