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California public schools could soon bid farewell to beloved snacks like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Doritos, and Takis if a new bill passes into law. Assembly Bill 2316, introduced by Democratic member Jesse Gabriel, seeks to eliminate items containing artificial chemicals and food dyes from school cafeterias, potentially leading to a state-wide ban on these popular treats, as reported by CBS News.
The proposed legislation targets six synthetic food dyes – “red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 1, blue 2, and green 3” – commonly found in various foods, including Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Doritos, and some breakfast cereals like Fruity Pebbles and Froot Loops. Additionally, the bill would prohibit the use of titanium dioxide, a coloring agent found in cosmetics and paints, from school foods.
Jesse Gabriel, in announcing the bill on social media, highlighted the health risks associated with these additives. “The science is complicated but the purpose of the bill is not,” he stated at a press conference. “This is about protecting our students from chemicals that have been proven to harm children and interfere with their ability to learn.”
Gabriel, a father of three and a person living with ADHD, emphasized the personal aspect of this issue. “As a lawmaker, a parent, and someone who struggled with ADHD, I find it unacceptable that we allow schools to serve foods with additives that are linked to cancer, hyperactivity, and neurobehavioral harms,” he said. His office noted that consumption of synthetic food dyes can lead to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral problems, as highlighted in research by the California Environmental Protection Agency in 2021.
Clarifying misconceptions, Gabriel emphasized that this is not a blanket “food ban” but a measure to safeguard children’s health. “This is not banning Flamin’ Hot Cheetos in California,” he added. The aim is to empower schools to prioritize the health and wellbeing of students and encourage manufacturers to reconsider the use of these additives.
California’s current regulations mandate that all students from kindergarten to twelfth grade receive free lunch and breakfast from their schools. These regulations stipulate that meals must include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or proteins, with specific guidelines on calories, carbohydrates, and fats in each item served. If enacted, AB 2316 would add another layer of health-consciousness to the state’s school meal programs, ensuring a focus on nutritious and additive-free options for its students.
