California Bill Would Ban Foods Containing Some Synthetic Dyes in Public Schools

A California assembly member has introduced legislation that would prohibit the state’s public schools from serving foods that contain certain additives. In particular, Assembly Bill (AB) 2316, introduced by Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), would prohibit schools from serving foods containing six synthetic food dyes—Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3.

Currently, products containing these dyes are required by the EU to carry a warning label.

The introduction of AB 2316 follows the 2023 passage California Food Safety Act – which banned the use of four chemicals from foods sold in California. Like the California Food Safety Act, AB 2316 would not ban any specific foods or products; rather, Gabriel says it would encourage companies to make modifications to products sold in the state.

AB 2316 now heads to the Assembly Education Committee, where it is expected to be heard in the coming weeks.