WATCH LIVE: RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz announce nutrition education initiative

June 9, 2026 - 04:47

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz appeared together today to announce a new initiative focused on overhauling nutrition education in American schools. The program, which aims to combat rising rates of diet-related disease, will push for updated curriculum standards and better access to whole foods in cafeterias.

Speaking at a press event, Kennedy emphasized the need to move beyond processed food reliance. "We are feeding our children a generation of illness," he said. "This is about giving them the knowledge and the fuel to thrive." Dr. Oz added that the initiative will also train teachers and provide grants for school gardens and cooking classes.

The announcement comes amid broader debates over federal nutrition guidelines and school lunch programs. Critics have long argued that current offerings are too high in sugar and refined grains. Supporters of the new plan say it could reshape how students understand food from an early age.

No specific funding figures were released, but organizers said they are working with several private donors and nonprofit groups. The first pilot programs are expected to launch in five states by the start of the next school year.