FDA Cracks Down on Potentially Harmful Food Additives

Agency targets 'Generally Recognized as Safe' rule that allows food companies to self-certify ingredients

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The FDA is taking a closer look at the American diet and what's in it, as part of the Department of Health and Human Services' 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda. The agency is targeting the longstanding 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) rule, which allows food companies to self-certify ingredients without federal oversight. FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Kyle Diamantas discusses how Americans can avoid potentially harmful processed ingredients and the steps Washington is taking to eliminate them.

Why it matters

The FDA's crackdown on the GRAS rule aims to provide greater oversight and transparency around food additives, which have been linked to various health issues. This move is part of a broader effort by the federal government to improve the overall health and wellbeing of Americans through dietary changes.

The details

The FDA is taking aim at the GRAS rule, which has allowed food companies to self-certify ingredients as safe for decades without federal review. Under the new initiative, the agency will require more rigorous testing and approval for food additives, in an effort to eliminate potentially harmful processed ingredients from the American diet.

  • The FDA's crackdown on the GRAS rule is part of the Department of Health and Human Services' 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, launched in 2026.

The players

Kyle Diamantas

FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, who discusses the agency's efforts to target potentially harmful food additives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Americans can avoid potentially harmful processed ingredients and the steps Washington is taking to eliminate them.”

— Kyle Diamantas, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods (FOX News Radio)

What’s next

The FDA's crackdown on the GRAS rule is part of a broader initiative to improve the health and wellbeing of Americans through dietary changes. The agency is expected to provide more details on the new regulations and timeline for implementation in the coming months.

The takeaway

The FDA's move to target the GRAS rule and increase oversight on food additives is a significant step towards improving the safety and quality of the American diet. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the potential health risks associated with certain processed ingredients and the government's commitment to addressing these concerns.