California Bans Artificial Food Dyes in Schools to Combat Behavioral Issues
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law prohibiting six synthetic food dyes in school snacks by 2028, citing links to hyperactivity and attention problems in children.
- The banned dyes include Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, commonly found in brightly colored snacks and beverages.
- Recent studies have shown a correlation between synthetic food dyes and behavioral issues like hyperactivity and trouble concentrating, particularly in children.
- This legislation builds on a previous California law banning certain food additives in all foods sold statewide, not just in schools.
- Food manufacturers oppose the ban, arguing that the FDA should be the sole regulator of food safety standards.
- Similar legislation is being considered in at least 10 other states, with some lawmakers pushing for federal action to regulate these dyes.
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