The Trump administration moved Monday to advance Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s food‑system overhaul by proposing new transparency rules for food ingredients. Under the draft federal rule, companies must notify the Food and Drug Administration before introducing any new substance into food products and provide safety justification. Advocates have long decried what they called a secret system and a loophole that allowed companies to declare that ingredients were safe without seeking the agency’s approval or notifying the public. The rule also requires companies to disclose any known allergens or potential health risks associated with the new ingredient. Proponents say the change will close that gap and increase accountability.

In a related development, the administration again postponed a promised definition of ultraprocessed foods, reflecting the complexity of categorizing foods based on processing levels and health impact. Officials indicated they need more data and stakeholder input before finalizing the criteria. The ultraprocessed definition delay leaves that aspect of the overhaul on hold.

The FDA will likely issue a request for comments after the proposal is published, allowing manufacturers and consumer groups to weigh in on the practical implementation. Final rules could be adopted later this year, marking a significant shift in how food ingredients are regulated.