Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order to Take Action Against UPF

January 10, 2025

California has taken another step in addressing public health and nutrition with Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent executive order. This directive instructs state agencies to evaluate the harms associated with ultra-processed foods and food additives, particularly synthetic food dyes, while considering actions to increase access to healthier alternatives.

Investigating Ultra-Processed Foods and Food Dyes

The executive order calls for a thorough investigation into the health risks posed by ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. State agencies are tasked with recommending strategies to reduce the consumption of these foods and examining the potential health effects of synthetic food dyes. Research has indicated that certain artificial food dyes may contribute to behavioral issues in children, as well as other long-term health concerns.

Expanding Access to Healthy Foods

One key component of the initiative is to explore ways to enhance access to affordable and nutritious foods, particularly in communities with limited options. The order directs agencies to assess the feasibility of requiring Medi-Cal Managed Care plans and California hospitals to use community investment funds to combat food deserts and improve public health initiatives at the local level.

Strengthening School Meal Standards

California has long been at the forefront of school nutrition programs, implementing policies that exceed federal food safety standards. Under this executive order, state agencies will explore adopting even stricter standards for school meals and expanding universal school food programs. California’s existing Universal Meals Program already provides two free meals per school day to all public TK-12 students, and this directive seeks to build on those efforts.

Recent Legislative Actions on Food Safety

In addition to the executive order, California lawmakers have introduced several bills to improve food safety and nutrition standards. These include restrictions on synthetic food dyes, efforts to standardize food labeling to reduce waste, and initiatives to make fresh produce more accessible. These measures include AB 2316, which bans dyes in school lunches, and AB 418, which targets harmful food additives across the state. Additionally, AB 518 and AB 2786 focus on expanding access to nutritious food through public assistance programs and mobile farmers’ markets.

A Step Toward Healthier Communities

Governor Newsom’s executive order underscores California’s ongoing commitment to addressing public health through better nutrition policies. While some of these measures may take time to implement, they signal a growing emphasis on the role of diet in preventing chronic illnesses and promoting overall well-being. By continuing to evaluate food safety standards and increasing access to fresh, healthy foods, California aims to support the health of its residents now and in the future.