FDA has pushed the food and drink industry’s buttons hard so far this year. From staffing crises to tech-driven solutions, 2025 has also tested the agency’s resilience and adaptability.
Public health is center stage, with FDA pressing for reductions on synthetic dyes, added sugars and sodium. Such efforts also reflect a growing urgency to align food policy with long-term health outcomes.
Meanwhile, the agency is embracing artificial intelligence and state partnerships to maintain inspection standards amid an historic workforce exodus. However, the pivot signals a new era of regulatory innovation that is clearly under increasing pressure.
Controversial rulings and state-level initiatives have also stirred debate, from SNAP restrictions to Prop 65 reforms. Such developments are reshaping how food safety and nutrition are governed across the country.
As FDA navigates political, scientific and consumer pressures, its actions are setting the tone for the industry’s future. Here are 19 of the most influential FDA-related stories of 2025 so far.
FDA inspections resume with help from states and AI
Facing a major staffing crisis, FDA is turning to AI and state partnerships to maintain food safety inspections. More than 3,500 employees have left since January, prompting a shift in strategy.
FDA official warns against dye purge
A former FDA leader has warned the current push to quickly purge dyes from US food could compromise the agency’s strategic abilities, preventing it from focusing on other priorities.
Prop 65 pushback: landmark ruling on acrylamide warnings
A court ruling has limited California’s Prop 65 cancer warnings for acrylamide in foods, a decision that could reshape how food safety risks are communicated.
MAHA Commission targets ultra-processed foods
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission blames ultra-processed foods for rising childhood health issues, calling for stricter oversight and reform. However, some stakeholders say, the recommendations offered do not contribute positively to the debate.
Industry responds to FDA transparency push
The Consumer Brands Association supports FDA efforts to improve ingredient transparency and enhance the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) notification process.
USDA approves first state SNAP waiver to ban junk food
In a move aligned with FDA health goals, the USDA approved several state requests to restrict SNAP purchases of soda and candy, sparking national debate. Since, more state bans have been approved.
FDA’s plan to eliminate synthetic food dyes
FDA has announced a sweeping initiative to phase out synthetic food dyes nationwide. This marks a major shift in food safety and labeling policy, aligning with long-standing state-level efforts.
MAHA Commission challenges ‘weak science’ in food claims
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission is cracking down on vague health claims and demanding peer-reviewed evidence for product benefits, signaling a tougher regulatory environment.
USDA organic deregulation sparks industry backlash
Although USDA-led, this deregulation effort affects FDA-aligned organic labeling standards. Industry groups warn it could erode consumer trust and market access for organic products.
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act nears Senate Vote
While not directly FDA-led, this bill reflects broader federal nutrition policy trends. It could influence future dietary guidelines, which are jointly published by FDA and USDA, and school nutrition standards.
FDA aims at big foods’ synthetic dyes
FDA and HHS launched a nationwide initiative to phase out synthetic food dyes, citing growing evidence of their potential health risks, especially in children. The campaign includes updated guidance for manufacturers and a timeline for reformulation.
MAHA slogan undercut after ‘massive’ layoffs
Jim Jones, former FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, resigned abruptly amid internal upheaval and mass staff departures. His exit raises questions about the agency’s direction and stability during a critical time for food safety reform.
FDA slammed over food inspection shortfalls
FDA faced criticism after failing to meet its food safety inspection targets for the previous year. Lawmakers and advocacy groups expressed concern over the agency’s capacity to protect public health amid staffing shortages.
What is FDA’s infant formula strategy?
In response to past shortages, FDA unveiled a new strategy focused on ensuring a stable and safe infant formula supply. The plan includes enhanced oversight of manufacturers and contingency planning for future disruptions.
Red No.3 mandatory reformulations come closer
The FDA reversed its previous stance on Red No.3, moving to revoke its authorization for use in food products. The decision follows renewed scrutiny over the dye’s potential carcinogenic effects in animals and aligns with broader efforts to eliminate synthetic additives.
How FDA comms freeze hit food
FDA implemented a temporary internal communication freeze, limiting public updates and press engagement. This move raised concerns among industry stakeholders about transparency and the timely dissemination of regulatory guidance.
FDA’s front-of-pack labelling critique
FDA introduced a proposal for mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labeling to help consumers make healthier food choices. The labels would highlight key nutrients like added sugars, sodium and saturated fat, aiming to combat diet-related diseases. But do they miss the mark?
Safety questions raised amid tense RFK debate
During a tense budget hearing, HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr defended the FDA’s rapid approval of three natural food dyes intended to replace synthetic alternatives. While Kennedy framed the move as a step toward industry collaboration and consumer safety, one lawmaker raised concerns about the speed of the approval process and the lack of long-term safety data.
‘Public not special interests’ from new dietary guidelines
RFK Jr pledged that the forthcoming 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans will prioritize public health over corporate influence. This marks a shift from previous administrations, with Kennedy emphasizing transparency and science-based recommendations amid scrutiny from both industry and advocacy groups.
