Food additives, especially dyes, are gaining more attention these days. Many people, including lawmakers in Texas, are starting to ask if these ingredients are safe. Some states, like California, are even planning to limit certain additives. The California Food Safety Act, which starts in 2027, will ban several synthetic additives due to concerns about their effects on children’s health, particularly related to behavior and development.
In Texas, proposed bills like HB 1290 and SB 314 aim to ban some of the same additives highlighted in California. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary, has also raised concerns and plans to review FDA rules on food additives.
Many parents are particularly worried about food dyes because they’re often found in products marketed to children. This has led a lot of them to look for foods without these additives.
One concerned mom is Lea Hallahan from Houston. She notes that school meals in eastern Europe, where she grew up, are quite different from what her children get at school. In a chat with Houston Matters‘ producer Joshua Zinn, she shares her experiences and how she picks foods for her kids.
To better understand food additives, Joshua also spoke with Michael Wong, a professor at Rice University. He explained the science behind these ingredients.
Additionally, pediatrician and culinary medicine instructor Dr. Rupa Mahadevan provided simple tips for parents to help them choose safe foods for their children in grocery stores.
As discussions about food safety continue, it’s clear that many are interested in ensuring healthier options for kids.
Check out this related article: Confronting Unwanted Guests: Roaches, Flies, and Moldy Food Issues at Sawgrass Mills, Doral, and Westchester
Source linkHealth & Science,Houston,Houston Matters,Local,News,food additives,food dyes,Michael Wong,nutrition,Rupa Mahadevan
