California’s Bold New Legislation Targets Ultra-Processed Foods in School Meals: What You Need to Know

California is stepping up its efforts to tackle unhealthy food options, particularly in schools. On March 19, 2025, Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel introduced a new bill, AB 1264. This bipartisan bill aims to phase out certain "ultra-processed" foods (UPFs) from public schools in California by 2032.

Gabriel shared that this initiative will involve collaboration between the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and researchers from the University of California. They will identify which UPFs should be eliminated, basing their decisions on health impacts and regulations in other areas.

This push aligns with California’s recent legislative moves to control the ingredients in food products. For example, the state previously banned several common food additives, including those linked to health concerns. In January 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom also signed an executive order aimed at curbing the use of UPFs and synthetic dyes in food.

If AB 1264 becomes law, it would mark a significant step by officially defining UPFs. This could influence other states to follow suit. Recently, states like New York and Illinois have proposed similar measures. West Virginia even banned several food dyes, and over 25 states are considering action against harmful ingredients.

The federal government is also focusing on food safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made evaluating food chemicals a priority. Recently, the FDA revoked the authorization for using FD&C Red Dye No. 3 due to safety concerns. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. supports these actions through his "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, aiming to rid the food supply of harmful substances.

The public’s response to these changes is mixed. Many parents and health advocates welcome the stricter regulations, believing they will lead to healthier choices for children. However, some in the food industry express concerns over how these restrictions could impact food availability and costs.

In today’s context, this movement towards cleaner food options reflects a growing awareness of health issues linked to processed foods. According to a recent study by the American Heart Association, a significant portion of children’s diets includes UPFs, which could be contributing to rising obesity rates among youth. This highlights the urgent need for actions like those proposed in AB 1264.

By focusing on the health of future generations, California is making a bold statement about food safety and nutrition. The developments under AB 1264 could reshape how food is viewed not just in California, but across the nation, with the potential to inspire similar initiatives elsewhere. For more on the FDA’s efforts in food safety, you can read about their Human Foods Program here.

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