• Gradually eliminating ultra-processed foods from school meals is the goal of the bipartisan law passed in California.
• The measure aims to reduce students' exposure to foods harmful to health and promote a healthy diet.
• California had previously banned four chemical substances, while a programme promotes fresh local food.

A new law passed in California, the first of its kind in the United States, will gradually phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals. The "Real Food, Healthy Kids Act" (AB 1264), supported across party lines, was signed on 8 October by Governor Gavin Newsom: the goal is to ensure that students have access to healthier and more nutritious food at school, reducing exposure to ingredients and additives associated with health problems.

"For too many students, the meals they receive at school are the only ones they can count on during the day, which makes food quality all the more important," said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. "By eliminating the most concerning ultra-processed foods, we are helping children stay nourished, focused and ready to learn."

What the California law on ultra-processed foods in schools says

The text first establishes for the first time a statutory definition of "ultra-processed food" in the United States. The identification is based on the presence of specific additives (such as stabilisers, emulsifiers, flavour enhancers, colourings or sweeteners) combined with high levels of saturated fats, added sugars or salt.

The measure then tasks the California Department of Public Health with identifying the most concerning and harmful ultra-processed foods that will be progressively phased out starting from July 2029. A total ban on serving these foods across all levels of education is expected by 1 July 2035. The law requires school suppliers to submit detailed annual reports on their products and their classification as ultra-processed foods.

Previous measures: free meals, a ban on four chemical substances and the promotion of local produce

California became the first state in the country to make school meals free for all state students, regardless of income. In 2023 and 2024, it banned four chemical substances from school foods — already prohibited in the European Union and other countries — such as the red colouring erythrosine and brominated vegetable oil. The state also promotes the "Farm to School" programme to ensure students have access to locally sourced and nutritious food.