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California Proposes Nation’s First Ban on Ultra-Processed Foods in School Meals

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel’s AB 1264 aims to phase out ultra-processed foods from public school meals by 2032, addressing health risks and setting new nutrition standards.

A chicken salad, flatbread and apple served at Bathgate Elementary School in Mission Viejo, Calif., in 2019.
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Overview

  • AB 1264 would establish the first legal definition of ultra-processed foods and task state scientists with identifying harmful products for removal from school meals.
  • The bipartisan bill, co-authored by Republican Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, has garnered praise for addressing childhood obesity and food addiction.
  • Ultra-processed foods, linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health risks, currently make up a significant portion of U.S. diets and California school meals.
  • California schools serve approximately one billion meals annually, making this legislation a large-scale effort to improve children’s health and nutrition.
  • The legislation may prompt food manufacturers to reformulate products to meet new standards, reflecting growing national momentum for food safety reforms.