California's new law to phase out ultraprocessed school foods: Here's why it matters for children's health

California has passed a groundbreaking law that will phase out certain ultraprocessed foods from school meals over the next decade. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, this first-in-the-nation legislation aims to improve the nutritional quality of meals served to students across the state.

Ultraprocessed foods—often packed with sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats—have been linked to various health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This new law sets a clear timeline to reduce these foods in schools, reflecting California's ongoing commitment to children's health and nutrition.

Defining ultraprocessed foods and the timeline for change
The law mandates that California's Department of Public Health establish definitions for "ultraprocessed foods of concern" and "restricted school foods" by mid-2028. Schools must begin phasing out these foods by July 2029. By July 2035, districts will no longer be allowed to sell the restricted items for breakfast or lunch, and vendors will be barred from supplying these foods by 2032.

Governor Newsom signed the bill at a Los Angeles middle school, emphasising California's leadership role. "California has never waited for Washington or anyone else to lead on kids' health — we've been out front for years, removing harmful additives and improving school nutrition," he said, as quoted by the Associated Press.

Impact on schools and food suppliers
The legislation may increase costs for school districts, with no additional funding attached to support the transition. The California School Boards Association expressed concern, warning that districts might have to divert resources from other needs to meet the new mandate. Troy Flint, a spokesperson for the association, said that districts would be "borrowing money from other areas of need" to comply with the law, according to the Associated Press.

The Consumer Brands Association also criticised the ban for being too broad. John Hewitt, representing the association, said manufacturers already meet "rigorous unique safety and nutrition standards set by the USDA and state agencies" and remain committed to providing "safe, nutritious and convenient" products, as reported by the Associated Press.

Existing efforts to improve school meals
Some California school districts have already begun reducing ultraprocessed foods. Michael Jochner, director of student nutrition at Morgan Hill Unified School District, eliminated sugary cereals, fruit juices, flavoured milks, and deep-fried items such as chicken nuggets and tater tots. He sources organic produce locally within about 50 miles, making most meals from scratch or semi-homemade, as noted by the Associated Press.

Similarly, Christina Lawson, director of food services at Western Placer Unified, has increased the share of scratch-made dishes in school menus from 5% to around 60% over the past three years. The district also sources more foods locally, offering varied meals like buffalo chicken quesadillas using tortillas made nearby in Nevada City. Lawson expressed optimism about the new law, saying it will create "even more options and even more variety" for students, as quoted by the Associated Press.

Health concerns linked to ultraprocessed foods
Ultraprocessed foods have been identified as a major source of calories in the US diet, accounting for over half of daily intake. While studies have linked these foods to chronic health conditions, it remains unclear whether the processing itself or the combination of sugar, fat, and salt is the primary cause.

Defining ultraprocessed foods has been challenging. The most common system, developed by Brazilian researchers, categorises foods based on the level of industrial processing. Some processed foods, such as tofu and whole-grain bread, can be healthful, making regulation complex.

The US government is currently working on establishing a federal definition of ultraprocessed foods to better address health concerns, according to recent announcements.

Pediatrician supports the law for children's health
Dr Ravinder Khaira, a paediatrician in Sacramento, spoke in favour of the law at a legislative hearing. He said the ban addresses a rise in chronic health conditions in children linked to poor nutrition. "Children deserve real access to food that is nutritious and supports their physical, emotional and cognitive development," he said. "Schools should be safe havens, not a source of chronic disease," as reported by the Associated Press.

California's new law represents a significant step in the effort to promote healthier school meals and reduce exposure to ultraprocessed foods among children. The phased approach provides time for schools and suppliers to adjust while aiming for a healthier future generation.