California Pioneers US' First Law to Regulate Ultraprocessed Foods in Schools
California has made a significant stride in promoting children's health with the passage of the 'Real Food, Healthy Kids Act'. Despite substantial industry opposition, the bill received broad bipartisan support and was signed into law, marking the first such legislation in the US to regulate ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) in school meals.
The new law aims to phase out harmful UPFs from school menus, affecting over 1 billion children annually. It defines UPFs based on specific ingredients and additives, with guidance on safe levels for children. Not all UPFs will be banned; only those with high levels of sugar, salt, or fat, or those containing harmful additives, will be gradually removed.
California's approach contrasts with the 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) movement, which merely promised to define ultraprocessed foods without concrete plans for removal. The law's implementation will be overseen by public health officials and scientists, who will decide which UPFs are most harmful and manage their phased withdrawal by 2035.
Children in the US currently consume nearly two-thirds of their calories from UPFs, according to a recent CDC report. The food industry and lobbyists are expected to challenge the law, as changes could impact their business interests.
California's 'Real Food, Healthy Kids Act' is a pioneering effort to improve children's nutrition in the US. Despite potential challenges from the federal government and industry resistance, the law sets a precedent for regulating ultraprocessed foods in school meals, with the goal of creating healthier environments for over 1 billion children.
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