California bill aims to ban junk food from schools

California lawmakers have introduced Assembly Bill 1264, aiming to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals by 2032. The bipartisan bill seeks to protect children’s health from harmful additives found in snacks like chips and sodas. Democratic Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel stated, “Our schools should not be serving students ultra-processed food products that can harm their physical or mental health.” The bill will have the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment define harmful foods based on their fat, sugar, and salt content. Gabriel emphasized the need for healthier options, noting, “Americans are among the world’s biggest consumers of ultra-processed foods.” Concerns have been raised about potential health disparities and consumer confusion, as expressed by Sarah Gallo of the Consumer Brands Association. This initiative follows Gabriel’s previous efforts to enhance food safety in schools.