WV, VA Ban Harmful Dyes Amid Health Concerns

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has signed a landmark law banning seven artificial food dyes and two preservatives, marking the state as the first to enact such comprehensive restrictions due to health concerns. The ban, effective August 2025 for school meals and expanding to all foods by 2028, targets dyes like Red No. 3, which the FDA has also recently banned from food and drugs nationwide. Critics argue that this law could lead to increased food prices and scarcity, as it affects 60% of grocery items. Governor Morrisey's initiative aligns with the 'Make America Healthy Again' mission, supported by the Trump administration and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aiming to improve public health metrics. Meanwhile, Virginia has also taken steps to improve school nutrition by banning similar artificial dyes, following similar actions by California. Despite criticism, proponents believe these measures are essential for addressing public health challenges and ensuring healthier food choices for children.