Janice R. Andrews
California Assembly Member Jesse Gabriel has presented Assembly Bill 2316, which would outlaw the use of six artificial food additives in school cafeterias throughout the state, with the goal of boosting children’s health.
Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, and titanium dioxide are among the additives that are being targeted. If AB 2316 is approved, it will require their removal from the menu at schools.
This project comes after Gabriel also introduced AB 418, a previous law. Five commonly used food additives—red color 3, potassium bromate, propylparaben, titanium dioxide, and brominated vegetable oil—are to be outlawed in California under AB 418.
Concerned about maintaining food safety standards, the National Confectioner’s Association (NCA) has asked FDA Commissioner Califf to step in and voice their concerns. Gabriel, however, claims that despite being FDA-approved, these additives carry possible health hazards, such as cancer and behavioral problems.
Gabriel places a strong emphasis on working together with interested parties, such as the food industry and nutritionists, to make sure the measure is effective in protecting the health of children.
“As someone who struggled with ADHD growing up and is a parent, I am committed to ensuring that school meals do not exacerbate children’s challenges,” Gabriel said. “Our goal is to serve safe food in schools that will not harm or hinder their learning abilities.”
The law demonstrates Gabriel’s dedication to putting kids’ health first and serving them wholesome, additive-free meals in classroom environments. If California is successful in encouraging healthier school food situations, other states may follow suit.
