California Takes Bold Step to Limit Ultraprocessed Foods in School Cafeterias: A Healthier Future for Our Kids

You don’t have to look far to see the issues with ultraprocessed foods. These high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt items—think fast food, frozen pizzas, and snack chips—link to over 30 health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even mental health issues like depression.

California schoolchildren often encounter these types of foods in their cafeterias. For years, schools have provided meals like chicken nuggets and frozen pizzas, even as some have made strides toward healthier options. Now, a new bill in California could change that. If signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, it would take a significant step toward eliminating harmful ultraprocessed foods from school menus.

This bill aims to create a clear definition for ultraprocessed foods—something not yet defined in law in the U.S. Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, who introduced the bill, believes this could be a powerful way to address children’s health, especially for those who depend on school meals for nutrition.

Gabriel’s bill classifies ultraprocessed foods as those high in saturated fats, sugars, or sodium, along with ingredients like artificial flavors and preservatives. Brian Ronholm from Consumer Reports highlights the negative effects of such foods, saying they offer little nutrition and encourage unhealthy eating habits.

Recent data shows that adults in the U.S. get over half their calories from ultraprocessed foods; for kids under 18, that number jumps to nearly 62%. These foods are made to be addictive, making it hard for people to resist them.

The bill has faced some pushback from food companies worried about potential changes in their products. However, it’s set to create a list of concerning ultraprocessed foods based on health impacts. If the bill is signed, it won’t take effect until 2027, allowing time for schools and companies to adjust.

Both California’s Assembly and Senate support this idea—something rare today. Gabriel emphasizes the importance of serving better food to the state’s students, especially in lower-income areas where many kids rely on school meals. In such communities, ultraprocessed foods are often the easiest to find, while fresh options are limited.

Research indicates that poor-quality diets may disrupt children’s brain functions. In Los Angeles, for example, over 80% of students qualify for free or reduced meals, making what they eat critical for their health. By phasing out ultraprocessed foods, California could help improve the nutrition and well-being of its most vulnerable children.

For more on the impact of food policy on health, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for insights on dietary trends and health outcomes.



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