FDA Proposes New Chemical Ranking Method for Food Safety Assessments

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated a public comment period regarding a proposed method for ranking chemicals in food products, intended to enhance its post-market assessments. This method, announced on June 27, 2025, would employ Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to prioritize chemicals based on a systematic and science-driven approach. The public is invited to submit comments until July 18, 2025.

The FDA's initiative mirrors a similar approach utilized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), aiming to provide a transparent framework for identifying chemicals that require further evaluation. According to FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Kyle Diamantas, this new methodology will score chemicals on various factors, including toxicity, exposure levels in food, and emerging scientific data. "This initiative is crucial for maintaining consumer confidence in food safety," Diamantas stated during a recent webinar.

In addition to the FDA's proposal, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched the "Take Back Your Health" campaign, which aims to address the rising incidence of diabetes linked to processed foods. HHS is seeking proposals from advertising firms to craft a strategy that motivates Americans to adopt healthier dietary habits. As noted by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the campaign will emphasize the importance of whole, nutrient-dense foods in preventing chronic diseases.

Moreover, Texas has enacted a new law mandating warning labels on food products containing 44 chemicals deemed harmful and not recommended for human consumption in other countries, such as Australia and Canada. This legislation, signed by Governor Greg Abbott, aims to enhance public awareness about food safety and will come into effect on January 1, 2027.

In the realm of allergen safety, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has updated its Chemistry Laboratory Guidebook to synchronize allergen testing with FDA standards. This update incorporates advanced XMAP multiplexing immunoassay technology to improve the screening process for allergens in ready-to-eat products, thereby augmenting consumer protection.

Canada, meanwhile, has taken proactive measures to safeguard its livestock industry by launching a national foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine bank. This initiative, supported by a $57.5 million investment, aims to prepare for potential outbreaks of FMD, which poses significant economic risks to the agricultural sector.

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, stakeholders are urged to engage in these discussions to shape food safety policies. The FDA's proposed ranking method, along with state-level initiatives and international efforts, reflects a growing commitment to ensuring a safer food supply for consumers across North America.