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Nutrition science is constantly evolving, and it can be difficult to know what’s fact, what’s hype and what really matters.
Here you’ll find concise evidence-based updates on current nutrition research, food, health, and wellness topics.
Just the facts. Then, the Nutrition By The Roots takeaway- what the research means for your everyday health.
Current Nutrition News
What happened?
The CDC is investigating a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis. As of mid-July 2026, hundreds of outbreak-related illnesses have been identified, while thousands of additional cases are under investigation across the United States. Investigators are working to identify the contaminated food source.
Why does it matter?
Cyclospora is most commonly spread through fresh produce or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure and may include:
• Watery diarrhea (sometimes severe)
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps and bloating
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
Without treatment, symptoms may last for weeks or even return after temporarily improving. Older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems may be at greater risk for complications.
🌱 Nutrition By The Roots Takeaway
Fresh fruits and vegetables remain an important part of a healthy eating pattern. During any foodborne illness investigation:
✔ Wash your hands and fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
✔ Refrigerate produce promptly.
✔ Follow food safety recalls and public health updates.
✔ If you experience prolonged diarrhea lasting more than a few days, contact your healthcare provider.
Food safety is an important part of good nutrition. Staying informed helps protect both your health and your family's well-being.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Cyclospora Outbreak with Unknown Source.” July 2026.
🌿 Did You Know…?
What Happened?
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a joint effort to develop the first official federal definition of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Currently, there is no standardized U.S. definition, making it difficult for researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and consumers to consistently identify these foods.
Why Does It Matter?
Research has found that diets high in ultra-processed foods are associated with an increased risk of several chronic diseases, including:
Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Some cancers
Other chronic health conditions
Additional facts shared by the federal agencies include:
Approximately 70% of packaged foods in the United States are considered ultra-processed.
American children obtain more than 60% of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods.
A standardized federal definition will help improve nutrition research, public health recommendations, consumer education, and future food policy.
🌱 Nutrition By The Roots Takeaway
The goal is not to fear food—it is to become more informed about our food choices.
Many packaged foods can still play a role in a healthy eating pattern. However, choosing more foods in their natural or minimally processed form such as fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, and eggs, can help support long-term health.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). "HHS, FDA, and USDA Request Information to Help Establish a Uniform Definition of Ultra-Processed Foods." July 2025.