The documentary ‘Toxic Nation,’ backed by US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his health movement “Make America Healthy Again,” claims that four things – ultraprocessed foods, seed oils, herbicides like glyphosate and fluoride are harming Americans’ health, especially children. Released by MAHA Films, a production company dedicated to promoting the movement’s values, the film warns that these substances may be linked to diseases like diabetes, cancer and cognitive issues.
It also criticises current health policies and urges people to eat more natural foods, avoid certain oils, buy organic and be cautious about fluoride in water. While some experts support these concerns, others say the science isn’t settled and call the film’s claims controversial.
The documentary by MAHA Films, named, “Toxic Nation: From Fluoride to Seed Oils — How We Got Here, Who Profits and What You Can Do,” highlights the four key health and environmental concerns championed by Kennedy’s nonprofit MAHA Action, premiered online Tuesday. It’s the first installment of a planned four-part series.
“If we can love our children more than we hate each other, we can solve the chronic disease epidemic affecting them,” producer and director Jeff Hays said in a news release, quoting Kennedy’s ethos. “‘Toxic Nation’ is our love letter to that vision, a call to create an America where families can finally thrive in true health.”
A policy push amid budget constraints
The documentary’s release follows the May 22 publication of the first MAHA Commission report, which outlines an overhaul of federal policy to address chronic disease in American children. However, Kennedy’s vision for reforming food systems, pharmaceuticals and environmental toxin regulations may face hurdles due to ongoing budget and staffing cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services and the Environmental Protection Agency.
“The Trump Administration can’t have it both ways,” said Scott Faber, senior vice president of government affairs at the Environmental Working Group, in an email.
“On the one hand, they’re sounding the alarm about diet-related disease and the illnesses caused by dangerous chemicals,” Faber added. “On the other hand, they’re making it harder for people to build healthy diets and eliminating the safeguards that protect us from toxins like PFAS and pathogens.”
Science, skepticism and controversy
While many experts have long studied the health effects of dietary and environmental exposures, the specific claims made in the film remain controversial, particularly regarding the degree of risk and scientific consensus.
Here’s what the latest research reveals about each of the four major targets of Toxic Nation:
Ultraprocessed foods: A growing health threat
The claim
The documentary identifies ultraprocessed foods as a major driver of chronic disease.
The background
Ultraprocessed foods make up to 70% of the US food supply. They are made with industrial processes and ingredients not typically found in household kitchens, including preservatives, dyes and flavour enhancers. These foods tend to be low in fiber and high in added sugar, sodium and unhealthy fats.
The research
A growing body of evidence links ultraprocessed food consumption to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, depression, cognitive decline, and premature death. Experts say this is partly due to their negative effects on metabolism, including elevated blood sugar and triglyceride levels caused by a lack of fiber.
What you can do
Cut down on ultraprocessed foods by eating more whole fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and seeds. Read food labels, watch your sodium intake, and pay attention to how different foods make you feel.
Seed oils: Reconsidering a long-held assumption
The claim
The film criticises public health advice that recommends replacing saturated animal fats with seed oils. Kennedy even praised Steak ‘n Shake’s decision to switch from seed oils to beef tallow for frying, calling it healthier.
The background
Seed oils like canola, corn, sunflower, and safflower gained popularity in the mid-20th century. Concerns today center around their chemical processing and instability when exposed to heat, which can produce harmful compounds.
The research
Although decades of data support plant-based fats for better heart health, newer studies—like those by Dr. Daisy Zamora—suggest that cutting back on seed oils may reduce chronic pain. Other research has linked them to arterial fat buildup and oxidative stress.
What you can do
Consider switching to extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. Use all fats in moderation and avoid reusing oils or cooking them at very high temperatures.
Glyphosate: A controversial herbicide
The claim
Toxic Nation raises alarms about glyphosate, linking it to cancer, hormone disruption, and gut microbiome damage.
The background
Glyphosate is widely used in agriculture and landscaping. Critics argue that residues in food could pose long-term health risks.
The research
A 2019 analysis linked glyphosate exposure to a 41% increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Animal studies also suggest gut damage. However, the EPA maintains that glyphosate is unlikely to be carcinogenic and poses no risk when used correctly. The World Health Organization disagrees, leading to multiple lawsuits—including one argued by Kennedy—that blamed glyphosate for cancer.
What you can do
Eat organic when possible, and prioritize the Environmental Working Group’s “Clean Fifteen” list while minimizing foods on the “Dirty Dozen.” Nonetheless, experts stress that the benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables outweigh the risks.
Fluoride: Debating dental and developmental health
The claim
The film focuses on hydrofluorosilicic acid—the type of fluoride used in most US drinking water—arguing that it contains arsenic and is linked to thyroid issues and dental fluorosis in children.
The background
While hydrofluorosilicic acid is the standard for water fluoridation, it differs chemically from sodium fluoride used in toothpaste. The EPA acknowledges that it contains more arsenic but sets limits to ensure safety.
The research
Fluoride has proven benefits in reducing tooth decay by at least 25%, according to the American Dental Association. A recent JAMA study found that removing fluoride from water would increase childhood cavities by 7.5%. However, a federal review raised concerns that higher levels of fluoride might impact children’s cognitive development, though evidence remains inconsistent and sparse for adults.
What you can do
To avoid fluoride, use certified water filters and ensure children don’t swallow toothpaste. For oral health, brush and floss regularly, limit sugary foods, and see a dentist.
The bigger picture
Toxic Nation casts a wide net over some of today’s most hotly debated health issues. Whether the film spurs real change—or fuels more controversy—will likely depend on how policymakers, scientists and the public respond to its claims. For now, it adds a provocative voice to America’s ongoing conversation about what’s safe to eat, drink and believe.