Clinical Scorecard: California Evaluates Certification for Foods Free from Ultra-Processing

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• California bill AB 2224 proposes a voluntary front-of-package seal for foods not classified as ultra-processed
• Ultra-processed foods are associated with increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
• The seal aims to help consumers make healthier choices and incentivize manufacturers to reformulate products

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Identify ultra-processed foods based on presence of specific additives plus high sugar, salt, fat, or non-nutritive sweeteners

Management

• Encourage consumption of foods certified as not ultra-processed using the proposed California seal
• Promote reformulation of food products to meet non-ultra-processed criteria

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Large grocery chains to prominently display certified non-ultra-processed foods once thresholds are met

Risks

• High intake of ultra-processed foods increases risk of chronic diseases and contributes to approximately 1,400 deaths daily in the US

Patient & Prescribing Data

Consumers including parents and school-aged children

Use of front-of-package certification may facilitate healthier food choices and reduce exposure to ultra-processed foods

Clinical Best Practices

• Educate consumers on identifying ultra-processed foods using clear labeling
• Support policies that incentivize manufacturers to reduce additives and unhealthy nutrient content
• Implement front-of-package seals to guide healthier purchasing decisions

References

• California Assembly Bill 2224
• University of Pennsylvania Nutrition Policy Research
• STAT News Coverage on Ultra-Processed Foods