Golden State Today

State Superintendent Thurmond applauds the passage of groundbreaking legislation to enhance school nutrition

Aug 30, 2024

SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent Tony Thurmond today celebrated a significant milestone in California’s commitment to student health and safety with the passage of Assembly Bill (AB) 2316 (Gabriel) by the California State Legislature.

Co-sponsored by Superintendent Thurmond, this legislation, effective December 31, 2027, will prohibit public schools from offering, selling, or otherwise providing food and beverages containing six potentially harmful substances. The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.

Once the bill is signed, California public schools would be required to eliminate food and drinks that contain Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. These substances, often used as food dyes and additives, have raised health concerns and are being removed from school environments to safeguard students' well-being.

“Healthy, safe school meals are foundational to our students’ well-being and ability to learn. As someone who depended on school meals growing up, I know how critical it is that our children receive food at school that is nutritious and is never harmful,” said Superintendent Thurmond. “AB 2316 is an important step forward to ensure that California’s schools are healthy and equitable learning environments for all.”

The ban described in the language of AB 2316 is based on a 2021 California Environmental Protection Agency study that concluded synthetic food dyes can cause behavioral difficulties, such as hyperactivity, in some children. AB 2316 reflects California’s ongoing efforts to create a healthier and more equitable educational environment. By removing these substances from school-provided food and beverages, the state is reinforcing its commitment to student health and ensuring that every child has access to safe, nutritious meals.

More information on resources related to child nutrition, nutrition education, and food distribution programs can be found on the California Department of Education Nutrition web page.