Why It Matters

Americans for Ingredient Transparency Inc. reported $170,000 in lobbying expenditures in its second-quarter 2026 disclosure, filed July 16 reflecting the organization's continued focus on food ingredient disclosure and labeling policy.

While the group did not identify specific legislation in its filing, the disclosure comes as the Food and Drug Administration continues work on ingredient transparency initiatives, including priority deliverables related to consumers with conditions such as celiac disease.

By the Numbers

The $170,000 in lobbying expenditures during the second-quarter of 2026 matches the organization's first-quarter spending and remains well above its reported expenditures of $60,000 in the fourth quarter of 2025 and $10,000 in the third quarter of 2025.

Russell Group Inc. handled the organization's federal lobbying, with Randy Russell and Sam Buchalter listed as registered lobbyists. Russell, a partner at the firm, has prior government experience and has filed 74 lobbying disclosure reports during his career. Buchalter, a principal, has filed 30 lobbying disclosure reports and has no prior government experience, according to his registration.

The Agenda

The filing comes as food labeling and ingredient disclosure remain active policy issues.

Consumer advocacy organizations have argued that some food industry proposals would preempt state food labeling laws. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has said the FRESH Act would preempt certain state requirements governing the use, labeling, sale and marketing of food and dietary supplements.

Industry groups, meanwhile, argue that a patchwork of state food laws creates compliance and supply chain challenges. Separately, U.S. Right to Know has reported that industry-backed advocacy groups have supported federal legislation establishing national standards in place of varying state laws.

The Bottom Line

Americans for Ingredient Transparency Inc. maintained its elevated lobbying expenditures during the second quarter of 2026 while continuing to withhold specific legislative priorities from its federal disclosure. Although the filing does not identify particular bills, the organization's consistent spending suggests continued engagement on federal food labeling and ingredient transparency policy.

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