Corn Refiners: Science – not Rhetoric – Should Guide MAHA Commission Work, Federal Policy

Sept. 9, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following the release of the Make America Healthy Again Commission's slate of policy suggestions, Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode released a statement encouraging the commission to pursue science-based legislative and regulatory activity in its efforts to improve American public health.

"CRA supports the Administration's continued focus on improving public health, understanding that America's food producers are a key partner in this effort," said Bode. "The work of farmers, ranchers, and food manufacturers to provide a safe, affordable food supply should be commended. As the Administration and congressional leaders consider these policy recommendations, CRA is eager to partner in a thoughtful process grounded in science- and evidence-based methodologies focused on nutrient composition.

"Nutritional quality of the consumer diet is determined by the nutrient content of foods eaten, not the degree of processing. It would be counterproductive to discourage consumption of highly nutritious foods that meet real world consumer needs, like convenience or increased fiber, simply because the food is more processed. American consumers have varying dietary needs, and innovation can help supply a diverse array of options to meet those needs.

"As the report emphasizes the importance of soil health, we are proud that American corn refiners have long supported the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices, such as cover crops, reduced or no-till, and crop rotations, on more than 5.5 million acres of U.S. farmland. That's an area roughly the size of New Jersey. These efforts are improving soil health, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing water retention and biodiversity, all while helping farmers strengthen their operations."

BACKGROUND
Today's report includes a set of policy recommendations from the MAHA Commission, which is comprised of Trump Administration officials from the Departments of Agriculture, Education, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Veterans Affairs; the Environmental Protection Agency; and the White House. The report was directed by a February executive order creating the MAHA Commission.

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About the Corn Refiners Association (CRA)
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch oil, protein, and fiber.