California Bans Artificial Food Dyes in Schools

California has passed a groundbreaking bill, the California School Food Safety Act, banning six artificial food dyes, including Red Dye No. 40 and Yellow Dye No. 5, from being used in public schools. Initiated by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, the bipartisan legislation aims to protect students' health due to concerns that these dyes contribute to behavioral problems and decreased attention. The bill, co-sponsored by the Environmental Working Group and Consumer Reports, now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature and would take effect on December 31, 2027. If enacted, California will be the first state to implement such a ban in its public school system, which serves over 6.3 million students. The FDA has not confirmed a direct link between these dyes and behavioral issues, but a 2021 study by the California EPA suggests potential harm.