Trump Administration Launches Review of U.S. Infant Formula Ingredients

Health Secretary Kennedy questions formula makers on seed oils, heavy metals and European standards

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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When Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. summoned infant-formula executives to Washington last spring, he arrived with a list of questions about seed oils, heavy metals and how U.S. formula stacks up against Europe's. Kennedy's concerns echoed those of parents aligned with the "Make America Healthy Again" movement as he prepared to launch "Operation Stork Speed," the Trump administration's sweeping review of U.S. formula ingredients.

Why it matters

The review of U.S. infant formula ingredients by the Trump administration reflects growing concerns among some parents about the safety and quality of American-made formula compared to European standards. This could lead to potential changes in formula regulations and composition in the U.S. market.

The details

Kennedy questioned infant-formula executives about the use of seed oils, heavy metals and other ingredients in U.S. formula, and how they compare to European formulas. This came as the "Make America Healthy Again" movement, which includes some parents, has raised concerns about the safety and quality of American-made formula. Kennedy's questions were part of the Trump administration's "Operation Stork Speed," a sweeping review of U.S. formula ingredients.

  • Last spring, Kennedy summoned infant-formula executives to Washington

The players

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The Health and Human Services Secretary who summoned infant-formula executives to Washington and questioned them about U.S. formula ingredients.

"Make America Healthy Again" movement

A group of parents who have raised concerns about the safety and quality of American-made infant formula compared to European standards.

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What’s next

The Trump administration is expected to release the findings of its "Operation Stork Speed" review of U.S. infant formula ingredients in the coming months.

The takeaway

This review reflects growing concerns among some parents about the composition of American-made infant formula and could lead to potential changes in formula regulations and ingredients in the U.S. market to better align with European standards.