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ARTICLE · 29 JULY 2026

Food Regulation Developments: Struggles To Define Ultraprocessed Foods

Beveridge & Diamond, P.C.
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State legislatures and federal agencies are showing a strong interest in defining and regulating ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), although no uniform definition has emerged. While federal agencies consider whether and how to develop a science-based definition of “ultraprocessed,” states are enacting legislation that directly regulates UPFs or ingredients commonly associated with UPFs.

United StatesConsumer Protection
Mark N. Duvall
Mark N. Duvall
Alan J. Sachs
Alan J. Sachs
Jack B. Zietman
Jack B. Zietman
Elizabeth Johnson
Elizabeth Johnson
Emily Schwartz
Emily Schwartz

Summary

State legislatures and federal agencies are showing a strong interest in defining and regulating ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), although no uniform definition has emerged. While federal agencies consider whether and how to develop a science-based definition of “ultraprocessed,” states are enacting legislation that directly regulates UPFs or ingredients commonly associated with UPFs. A bill introduced recently in California (A.B. 2244) would further this trend by creating a “Non-Ultraprocessed Certified” seal. Food manufacturers and other stakeholders should follow this bill closely to see whether it becomes law and whether other states pursue similar legislation.

What Are Ultraprocessed Foods?

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