California BANS Harmful Chemicals—Why It’s About Time for All of Us
For years, we’ve been sounding the alarm on plastics, artificial dyes, and other toxic chemicals hiding in the foods we eat.
Now, California has finally taken a bold step by banning six dangerous chemicals, including Red Dye No. 40, from public schools.
It’s a victory for kids, but what about the rest of us?
These chemicals don’t just harm our children and grandchildren—they’re bad news for ALL of us, whether we’re young or old.
The new law, known as the California School Food Safety Act, bans certain artificial dyes found in everything from candy to chips and even drinks like Gatorade.
While this is a great step forward for the 6.3 million children in California’s public schools, it begs a larger question: why are we still allowing these chemicals in food for the rest of us?
Let’s be clear—this isn’t just about keeping your grandkids safe. The dyes and chemicals being banned have been linked to everything from hyperactivity in children, to chronic inflammation— which is a known risk factor for increased cancer risk— to digestive issues, and even behavior problems. And new research is continually revealing just how dangerous they are for everyone.
For instance, Red Dye No. 40 and Yellow Dye No. 5, both banned by this new law, have been associated with allergic reactions and worsening asthma. Studies have even linked these dyes to problems like ADHD, headaches, and mood swings.
And it’s not just kids who are affected—anyone consuming these chemicals could be at risk for long-term health problems.
Yet, for decades, Big Food and Big Pharma have turned a blind eye. Why? Because these chemicals are cheap, and they keep food looking bright and fun. But the price we’re paying for our health is way too high.
California’s move may seem groundbreaking, but it’s really just the tip of the iceberg. The truth is, we’ve known for years that chemicals like these are dangerous.
Yet they’re still everywhere—in our snacks, drinks, and even the packaging our food comes in. The FDA has been dragging its feet, relying on outdated research to justify allowing these substances in our food.
But let’s face it: the research backing these dyes is over 35 years old! It’s time we started paying attention to the new science, which tells us that these chemicals are doing far more harm than we ever imagined.
California is leading the way, but if you live outside of the state, you can’t rely on legislation to protect you. You have to take matters into your own hands.
Thankfully, there are ways to protect yourself from these toxic chemicals. Here’s how you can minimize your exposure:
- Read Ingredient Labels—Check for artificial dyes and chemicals like Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, and other harmful additives. Opt for products labeled organic or free from synthetic dyes.
- Choose Fresh, Whole Foods—Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are the safest and healthiest way to add color to your diet. Skip the processed snacks and load up on nature’s rainbow of produce.
- Make Your Own Snacks—Try making homemade versions of your favorite snacks like chips or fruit pops using natural ingredients and without the harmful additives.
Big Food and Big Pharma won’t change overnight, but you don’t have to wait for them to act.
Start making better choices today to protect your health and the health of your family.
To clean, healthy eating for all,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
Sources:
Rogers, K. (2024, August 30). California passes school food bill banning 6 chemicals linked to behavioral issues in kids. CNN; CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/30/health/california-food-dye-ban-schools-wellness/index.html
