The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced plans to phase out ingestible fluoride supplements for children, aligning with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s push to limit fluoride use over health concerns.
Matthew Perrone reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- The FDA will review ingestible fluoride products like tablets and drops by October and has asked manufacturers to withdraw them voluntarily, citing risks to gut bacteria and possible links to lower IQ.
- The American Dental Association opposes the move, warning it could harm vulnerable populations, especially in rural areas with limited access to fluoridated water or dental care.
- Kennedy has launched a task force to scrutinize the use of fluoride, while lawsuits and investigations targeting fluoride-containing products are gaining traction across several states.
Key quote:
“More than ever, at this critical time in American health care policy, it is vital that we slow down to properly study the full implications of actions like this on the health of the nation.”
— Brett Kessler, American Dental Association president
Why this matters:
Fluoride has long been used to prevent cavities, especially in children, and remains a foundational tool in public health dentistry. Yet its presence in drinking water and supplements has stirred controversy. Emerging research has sparked concerns about potential effects on children’s brain development and gut health, though major dental and medical bodies argue that fluoride is safe and effective at current exposure levels. The issue underscores deeper tensions over science, public trust, and federal oversight—especially as Kennedy pushes to dismantle long-standing public health practices.
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