Sacramento, CA — A new law in California will provide a statutory definition of ultra-processed foods and phase out those types of items from school meals.
The legislation, AB 1264, was signed by Governor Gavin after receiving bipartisan support in both the Senate and Assembly.
Newsom states, “This first-in-the-nation law builds on that work to make sure every California student has access to healthy, delicious meals that help them thrive.”
Proponents argued that school lunches are the only reliable meal for some students, and it is important that they receive healthy ingredients. They cite that the CDC has found links between ultra-processed foods and higher risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
Mother Lode Republican representatives, including Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil, Assemblyman David Tangipa, and Assemblyman Heath Flora, all voted in support of AB 1264.
The Governor’s Office reports that it comes on top of other actions previously taken, including a long-standing ban on sodas at K-12 campuses, restrictions on caffeine, and a requirement that entrees be sold on the same day or the day after they appear on the menu.
