Consumer Action for a Strong Economy (CASE) has released an independent scientific review of the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment (MAHA Report). Conducted by Dr. Mark Kern from San Diego State University, the review criticizes the report for being misleading due to biased literature selection and reliance on non-peer-reviewed content. The findings question the report's credibility as a basis for public health and regulatory decisions.
Dr. Kern's analysis is the first formal scientific review of the MAHA Report's sources and claims. It addresses concerns from public health experts, academic institutions, and food system stakeholders about its accuracy and scientific integrity. "American families deserve reliable information," said Matthew Kandrach, President of CASE. He criticized the report for spreading misinformation that undermines public trust and weakens scientific standards.
The MAHA Report was initially presented as an "evidence-based foundation for policy interventions" but has faced scrutiny following Dr. Kern's review, which highlights its failure to meet basic scientific standards. Dr. Kern said that the report relies on biased narrative reviews rather than sound scientific data, failing to align with President Trump's Executive Order to restore Gold Standard Science in federal government practices.
Dr. Kern warned against using the MAHA Report as a regulatory basis due to potential consequences for the U.S. economy, consumer choice, and food prices. The report's recommendations could impact food access, agricultural policy, and over 19 million jobs nationwide if enacted.
Kandrach emphasized that nutrition policy should be based on reproducible evidence rather than biased claims or narrative reviews. "This analysis is a call to return to evidence-based policymaking," he said.
Dr. Kern's full evaluation is available at www.caseforconsumers.org/maha.
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