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California's Bipartisan Bill Aims to Ban Ultraprocessed School Foods

9/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A bipartisan bill to ban "ultraprocessed" foods in California school lunches is now with Governor Gavin Newsom.
Supported by both parties, the legislation aligns with the MAHA movement.
It defines ultraprocessed foods as those containing flavor enhancers, high saturated fats, sodium, or certain sugars.
The phase-out is scheduled for completion by July 2032.
Critics warn it may unintentionally ban many foods and create liabilities.

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Story summary

A bipartisan bill to ban "ultraprocessed" foods in California school lunches is now with Governor Gavin Newsom.
Supported by both parties, the legislation aligns with the MAHA movement.
It defines ultraprocessed foods as those containing flavor enhancers, high saturated fats, sodium, or certain sugars.
The phase-out is scheduled for completion by July 2032.
Critics warn it may unintentionally ban many foods and create liabilities.