Governor Newsom Signs Legislation to Boost Healthy Eating and Combat Food Waste in California

"Fresh, healthy food should be accessible to everyone, especially our children," said Governor Newsom.Photo byMegan ThomasonUnsplash

Sacramento, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills today aimed at increasing participation in food assistance programs, protecting children from harmful processed foods, and reducing food waste. The new legislation is part of a broader effort to address California’s chronic disease epidemic by improving access to healthy, locally sourced foods.

A key part of the package is AB 2316, authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, which prohibits schools from serving foods containing synthetic additives linked to health risks like cancer and hyperactivity. Governor Newsom also signed AB 660 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, standardizing food labels to reduce confusion and significantly cut down on food waste.

"Fresh, healthy food should be accessible to everyone, especially our children," said Governor Newsom. "By making nutritious meals available without harmful additives, we are setting the foundation for a healthier future with less chronic disease."