What We’re Reading: "Food Is Medicine" Summit; Global Pandemic Treaty Negotiations; Discontinuation of Levemir Insulin

Instacart Partnership Launched as Part of "Food Is Medicine" Summit

On Wednesday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will host a first-of-its-kind “Food Is Medicine” summit, which will focus on how food can promote healthier living, according to The Hill. This summit is part of a larger effort by the Biden administration to invest in nutrition and overall wellness to reduce illness and health risks. The Biden administration has partnered with Instacart, the Rockefeller Foundation, and Feeding America to identify how food-based programs can lead to better health outcomes among marginalized communities, expand access to health food, and address hunger issues in the US.

Biden Supports Pharma Interests in Global Pandemic Treaty Talks

In ongoing global pandemic treaty negotiations, President Biden is facing scrutiny for his administration's perceived alignment with pharmaceutical interests, according to Politico. Critics argued that the Biden administration's support for the pharmaceutical industry could hinder efforts to ensure affordable access to essential medicines worldwide. The negotiations, aimed at strengthening global health responses, have sparked a debate over the balance between protecting intellectual property rights and promoting global public health.

Discontinuation of Levemir Insulin Raises Concerns for Patients and Health Care Providers

Novo Nordisk's decision to discontinue the production of Levemir (insulin detemir) has triggered concerns among patients and health care providers, according to USA Today. With Levemir being a widely used insulin medication, the announcement has prompted individuals relying on this product to explore alternative options. The move by Novo Nordisk highlights ongoing challenges in the insulin market, raising questions about accessibility and affordability for those dependent on this medication.