Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and MAHA Agenda

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly challenged Dunkin’ and Starbucks to provide safety data showing that drinks with sugar levels exceeding 100 grams are safe for teenagers, warning that the Trump administration could consider limits on such products under its 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda. Speaking late last month, Kennedy cited a Dunkin’ iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar and contrasted it with new federal dietary guidelines recommending no more than 10 grams of added sugar per meal, while federal data from the CDC link frequent sugary‑drink consumption to obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other conditions. HHS says it has strengthened reviews and closed loopholes but has not said specifically what actions Kennedy might pursue, and FDA authority to directly ban sugary beverages is limited, likely requiring new legislation or state and local action. CBS medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder framed the issue as part of broader concern over ultra‑processed foods, arguing that 'liquid candy' should not be a default beverage for teens, while Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey responded to Kennedy’s comments with a defiant 'COME AND TAKE IT' Dunkin’ meme and neither Dunkin’ nor Starbucks has formally replied beyond Dunkin’s rollout of a new zero‑sugar energy drink.