California Bill Bans Harmful Dyes in School Food

California Bill 2316 seeks to ban several dyes to foods that are deemed unhealthy in studies.Photo byPhoto by: Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

In an attempt to create healthier foods, California has just passed a bipartisan Bill 2316 banning the use of red dye No. 40 and 5 other chemicals in foods in public schools. These additives are also found in many cereals, candy, ice creams, jellies, and cheese-flavored potato chips, as well as some drinks.

The State of California also made headlines when in October 2023 they passed the “Calilfornia Food Safety Act” Assembly Bill 418, which banned other various dyes and chemicals in food, especially targeting children's food and snacks in schools.

The bipartisan goal is to create a healthier lifestyle in schools and get kids to eat better instead of the classic junk feed that so many gravitate to.

There have long been concerns about the dyes and additives in food to make them look more appealing. In 2010, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver had a reality show that enlightened people on just how hard it was to change the mindset of parents, schools, and kids into eating healthier diets with fewer preservatives and additives.