This month, national headlines swirled around evolving changes in the national food system under the Trump Administration, from ultra-processed food policy to SNAP cuts. At the same time, New Yorkers encountered a mix of innovation, scrutiny, and civic reflection in food policy around proposed public grocery stores and updated food standards. Here’s what shaped August.
What’s Hot: NYC Set to Update Its Food Standards by July 2026
Locally
On August 26, 2025, the NYC Health Department and Mayor’s Office of Food Policy released enhanced NYC Food Standards, which govern the meals and snacks served by the 11 city agencies, including schools, public hospitals, older adult centers and more. The update eliminates processed meats, restricts artificial colors and low or no-calorie sweeteners for all ages and boosts minimally processed plant protein offerings and snack quality. These changes aim to improve the nutrition of approximately 219 million meals and snacks served annually, and will go into effect beginning July 1, 2026.
Nationally
And in other news, ICYMI, a federal move towards a national definition of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is underway with a request for public comments. The USDA, FDA, and HHS have released a Request for Information to gather input on establishing a clearer definition of UPFs. The initiative underscores growing concern and regulatory interest in how highly processed foods affect health and nutrition. Public comments are due by September 23, 2025, and can be submitted here.
Watchdog: Public Confidence in Food Safety Plummets
According to the 2025 International Food Information Council (IFIC) Food & Health Survey, just 55 percent of Americans say they are “very” or “somewhat” confident in the safety of the U.S. food supply—a sharp decline from 70 percent in 2023, and the lowest rating since 2012. The drop comes amid increased public scrutiny over foodborne illness outbreaks, chemical contaminants, and inconsistent labeling standards. Experts warn that waning trust could lead to greater consumer hesitancy, misinformation, and reduced participation in government food assistance programs such as the USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Policymakers and industry leaders alike are being urged to increase transparency and invest in more rigorous food safety communication strategies.
Recent high-profile recalls, including contaminated produce and mislabeled allergens, have further fueled skepticism, especially among vulnerable populations. Advocates are also pointing to the FDA’s proposed delay in implementing the Food Traceability Rule as a missed opportunity to restore public confidence through stronger oversight and accountability.
Notably, the IFIC survey found that only 42 percent of Black respondents and 48 percent of Hispanic respondents expressed confidence in food safety, compared to 61 percent of white respondents, underscoring longstanding racial disparities in how food systems are experienced and trusted across communities.
Quote of the Month
“Every New Yorker deserves access to delicious healthy food that they feel good about eating.” — Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse, on the announcement of the updated NYC Food Standards for meals and snacks served by city agencies
