According to a recent CBS News article, California lawmakers have taken a bold step towards improving student health by voting to ban certain food additives from school meals. This groundbreaking legislation, known as the California School Food Safety Act, targets six specific food dyes linked to behavioral issues in children.

The ban would affect popular snacks like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Twinkies, which contain these controversial additives. While these products will still be available in stores, they will no longer be permitted in school cafeterias across the state.

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, the bill’s author, emphasized the importance of protecting children’s health. “As a lawmaker, a parent and someone who struggled with ADHD, I find it unacceptable that we allow schools to serve foods with additives that are linked to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral harms,” Gabriel stated.

The targeted additives include Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. These dyes are commonly found in popular snacks and cereals but have been associated with health concerns. A 2012 National Institutes of Health study found that some of these additives may be contaminated with carcinogens.

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California’s State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, expressed support for the bill, stating, “Healthy, safe school meals are foundational to our students’ well-being and ability to learn.”

The legislation, which is now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature, is set to take effect on December 31, 2027. Proponents hope this move will encourage food manufacturers to reformulate their products and potentially influence marketing practices beyond California’s borders.

Read more at CBS News