Food policy stories

Jul 25, 2026

FDA's voluntary sodium reduction targets show minimal impact three years after implementation

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Phase I voluntary sodium reduction targets, issued in 2021 to encourage manufacturers to lower sodium in packaged foods by 2024, appear to have had minimal effect on reducing sodium levels in food products.

Jul 25, 2026·1 source

Jun 25, 2026

Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration's SNAP Restrictions on Candy and Sugary Drinks

A federal judge struck down efforts by the Trump administration and five states to restrict SNAP recipients from purchasing soda, candy, and sugary drinks, ruling that the U.S. Department of Agriculture exceeded its authority.

Jun 25, 2026·2 sources

Top claims

▪Researchers state that voluntary, non-binding targets are less effective at reducing the sodium content of the food supply than policies with stronger accountability.
▪The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to issue a formal evaluation of its Phase I sodium reduction targets later in 2026.
▪The U.S. Food and Drug Administration introduced Phase II sodium reduction targets in August 2024.