Better Food Disclosure Act of 2025; Better FDA Act of 2025
Summary
The Better Food Disclosure Act of 2025 amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, mandating that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) be notified regarding food substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS). It requires the establishment of a publicly accessible list of GRAS substances and a process for post-market assessment of food additives, color additives, and GRAS substances. This bill aims to increase transparency and oversight of food substances deemed safe for consumption.
Expected Effects
The act will require companies to report GRAS substances to the FDA, potentially leading to increased regulatory scrutiny and possible removal of some substances from the GRAS list. This could result in changes to food formulations and increased costs for manufacturers. Consumers may benefit from increased food safety and transparency.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency regarding food substances considered safe.
- Enhanced FDA oversight of food additives and substances.
- Potential for improved food safety through post-market assessments.
- Standardized procedures for listing and reevaluating GRAS substances.
- Greater consumer confidence in the safety of food products.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased regulatory burden on food manufacturers.
- Potential for delays in introducing new food products.
- Possible increased costs for food production, potentially passed on to consumers.
- Risk of inconsistent application of GRAS standards.
- Potential for unnecessary reevaluation of safe substances based on unsubstantiated petitions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating food substances in interstate commerce. It also relates to the general welfare provision of the Preamble by aiming to ensure food safety. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).