Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/296

Are processed foods truly undermining our health, or are they an essential part of a safe, nutritious, and affordable food supply? Should the way we classify foods based on processing outweigh decades of national dietary guidelines—or are these systems flawed from the start? And what happens to public health policy when decisions hinge on classifications that may not be scientifically sound?

Tune in to this episode to learn more about:

· how UPFs are defined

· the NOVA classification system

· how much of our diet is UPF

· benefits of UPFs in the diet

· how and why the current public discourse on UPFs is “superficial”

· growing global distrust of science

· how the food industry is responding to criticisms around UPFs

· actions the food industry has taken to improve products

· how the food industry gains insights into consumer preferences

· the roles and responsibilities of food companies to educate and inform consumers

· collaboration between the food industry and policymakers

· what the future of UPFs might look like

· resources for more information

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/295

In this episode, we explore the FoodMinds Conscious Consumption Index, revealing insights into consumer sentiment on healthy and sustainable food systems. Despite growing familiarity with the topic, less than half of consumers report purchasing healthy, sustainable options regularly. What’s driving this gap between awareness and action? Join us as we explore how people are thinking about healthy, sustainable foods. We'll discuss how definitions of sustainable foods are evolving, the generational differences in engagement, and the main drivers and barriers to purchasing. Discover why price, taste, and skepticism about marketing claims are significant obstacles, and learn how stakeholders—from companies to individuals—can help transform our food systems.

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/294

Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) is a public health-oriented slogan and initiative aimed at addressing the health challenges facing Americans led by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Scientists, medical professionals and public health officials have criticized the movement, citing concerns about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s past remarks and views regarding vaccines and public health.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

● a nutrition and public health expert’s reflection on the first 6 months of MAHA

● funding cuts to various nutrition programs, research and landmark trials such as the Diabetes Prevention Program

● the administration’s focus on food dyes, seed oils and the FoodPyramid

● how health professional societies are responding so far

● opportunities for meaningful changes in public health nutrition

● what the new DGAs might look like

● resources for more information