New bill would put warning labels on sugary and ultra-processed foods

What does this do?

The bill would require warning labels on sugary drinks, artificially sweetened foods, ultra-processed foods, and items high in added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium. Labels must cover at least 5% of the package front in a bold, bordered box. It also bans marketing these foods to children using cartoons, celebrities, toys, or influencers, and requires the same warning labels in ads.

Who does it affect?

Food and beverage manufacturers, retailers, and advertisers would face new requirements enforced by the FDA and FTC; parents and children would see the labeling and ad changes directly.

Why does it matter?

Manufacturers and advertisers would bear compliance costs and lose certain marketing tools, while consumers would see more warnings and fewer child-targeted junk food ads.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Funds NIH nutrition research
• Funds CDC education campaign
• No dollar amounts specified