A California legislator is introducing Assembly Bill 1264, which aims to phase out certain ultra-processed foods from public schools in the state. The bipartisan bill would direct state scientists to identify harmful ultra-processed products and eliminate them from school meals by 2032. Ultra-processed foods typically contain low-quality ingredients and have been linked to negative health outcomes such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
The bill would create the first statutory definition of ultra-processed foods and identify the most harmful ones that should be removed from school meals. It would focus on ingredients that contribute to food addiction, are high in fat, sugar, or salt, and have been linked to health issues. The legislation is supported by experts who highlight the importance of protecting children’s health and preventing addiction to unhealthy foods from a young age.
The bill comes at a time when there is growing momentum to improve nutrition and reduce harmful additives in food. Other states, such as West Virginia, have passed bans on artificial food dyes, indicating bipartisan support for healthier food options. The bill’s co-authors include Republican Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, emphasizing that children’s health should not be a partisan issue. If enacted, the bill would prioritize serving healthier food options in California schools to address the state’s obesity epidemic and promote better nutrition for students.
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