(Reuters) – California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Friday aimed at cracking down on ultra-processed foods, including packaged snacks and sugary drinks, and further studying the health effects of synthetic food dyes.
The order directs an investigation into California hospitals’ use of public resources and the Medi-Cal Managed Care program to improve local access to fresh, healthy food and promote public health.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
The decision cites a new 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee report showing that 73% of U.S. adults ages 20 and older are overweight or obese, and 38% of children and youth ages 12 to 19 are prediabetic.
CONTEXT
The order follows Newsom’s previous healthy diet initiatives, including restrictions on soda and caffeine in schools and a proposed sugar limit on non-dairy milk, set to take effect in 2025.
It follows calls from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the leader of the Department of Health and Human Services, to ban certain food additives and remove ultra-processed foods from school meals.
IMPORTANT QUOTE
“The food we eat should not make us sick or lead to lifelong consequences,” Newsom said.
“We will work together with industry, consumers and experts to tackle ultra-processed foods and create a healthier future for every Californian.”
WHAT’S NEXT
The California Department of Public Health and the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment must make recommendations by April 1, 2025.
