US Senate Leader Marshall Calls for Stricter Food Standards Under SNAP to Address Chronic Disease Crisis

WASHINGTON — Senator Roger Marshall, R-Kan., a physician, Thursday urged federal action to redefine food standards under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), citing rising rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes among Americans.

Marshall emphasized that recent restrictions on candy, soda, and other ultra-processed foods in Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia represent a public health initiative rather than punishment. He noted at least 18 states are pursuing similar measures following encouragement from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

“Seventy percent of Americans have a chronic disease,” Marshall said. “Leading the way is obesity and Type 2 diabetes. We’re not telling people they can’t buy sugary drinks or candy with their own money, but if we’re using government dollars, let’s use them to help people become healthier.”

The senator highlighted legislative efforts such as reintroducing whole milk into school lunches, which he stated President Donald Trump has pledged to sign into law. Marshall also stressed that federal health officials must first clarify what constitutes ultra-processed foods before moving on to eliminate artificial additives and dyes.

“Education is critical,” Marshall added. “We need to define what ultra-processed foods are. The FDA has a responsibility to answer questions about ingredients like red dye: Is it healthy? What other components exist?”

Marshall concluded that naturally grown, unprocessed foods—such as those from family gardens—are the healthiest choices for Americans.