Key Update

California will become the first U.S. state to remove certain ultraprocessed foods from school meals. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law mandating a 10-year phase-out, with a complete ban by 2035. Schools must identify the specific products by June 2028, with guidance from the state Department of Public Health on compliance.

Law Targets Unhealthy Additives and Excess Nutrients

The law focuses on foods high in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars, as well as those containing stabilisers, thickeners, colourings, or non-nutritive sweeteners. Officials say these products pose the greatest health risks to children, affecting both physical and mental health.

Bipartisan Support Highlights Parental Concern

State Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, who introduced the bill, emphasised that parents across political lines want healthier meals for children. “Food affects kids’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being,” he said. The legislation received bipartisan support, and Newsom called it a unifying initiative during the signing ceremony at Belvedere Middle School.

Currently, U.S. children and adolescents consume nearly 62% of their daily calories from ultraprocessed foods. The law requires schools to start phasing out these products by 2029 and remove them completely by 2035. Gabriel noted that schools that switched to healthier meals have not faced higher costs, with some districts even saving money while offering nutritious options.

Department of Public Health to Oversee Compliance

The state’s Department of Public Health will assess foods based on health risks, addictive potential, and policies in other states or countries to ensure safe and nutritious school meals.

Source: The Economic Times