Arizona Bans Ultra-Processed Foods in Schools with Bipartisan Support, Backed by RFK Jr.'s MAHA Initiative

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Updated Apr 15, 2025, 02:18 AM

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, has signed into law House Bill 2164, which bans the serving of ultra-processed foods containing certain chemical additives in K-12 public schools. The bill, supported by both Republicans and Democrats, aims to reduce children's exposure to potentially harmful substances in their school meals. The legislation, backed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., specifically targets 11 additives including Red Dye No. 40, titanium dioxide, and potassium bromate. This move is part of the broader 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) initiative, which has garnered bipartisan support in Arizona. Examples of foods affected by this ban include Frosted Strawberry Pop-Tarts, Froot Loops cereal, and nacho cheese Doritos. The bill was introduced by state Representative Leo Biasiucci, a Republican, and its passage reflects a growing concern over the health impacts of ultra-processed foods on children. The law prohibits the sale or service of foods containing these additives in schools, though it does not prevent parents from sending such foods with their children. Additionally, another bill, HB2165, which seeks to restrict soda purchases with SNAP benefits, awaits the governor's signature.

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