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On May 22, the Trump Administration released its highly anticipated report examining potential drivers of childhood chronic diseases. The report, issued by the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, encourages increased consumption of fruits and vegetables along with criticisms of various aspects of the U.S. food system.
“The report’s focus on the benefits of the fruit and vegetable industry is very positive long-term,” said Ted Tschirky, National Potato Council (NPC) 2025 President. “Our primary purpose is making this industry more beneficial for our consumers and competitive for our growers. We want to work with the Administration toward that goal.”
Beyond the encouragement for federal policies to support fruits and vegetables, the report also takes aim at pesticides. It specifically cites some studies linking glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) to adverse health outcomes. However, the report emphasizes the need for more extensive research to establish definitive connections for these claims.
It also appears to signal a shift away from relying on peer-reviewed science and the preponderance of evidence when making regulatory decisions related to pesticide availability and nutrition guidance.
“A valid, rigorous scientific process is the foundation of the U.S. regulatory system, and ensures that facts, not emotions, govern the way American family farms grow this amazing food supply,” said NPC CEO Kam Quarles. “The U.S. cannot make the mistake of allowing activists to twist its safe, thorough and effective system into a European model. American family farms will lose if they are forced down that unscientific and uncompetitive path that EU farmers suffer from.”
The report also echoes concerns raised by Secretary Robert Kennedy and the MAHA initiative regarding the impact of ultraprocessed foods, added sugars, food dyes, and additives in American diets. It advocates for a transition to a whole-food diet, emphasizing the nutritional value of items such as whole milk, dairy, beef, leafy greens, and legumes.