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California Bans Ultra-Processed Foods in Schools by 2032

10/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1264, the Real Food, Healthy Kids Act, on October 8, 2025, to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals.
The law establishes the first legal definition of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in the United States, focusing on harmful ingredients rather than a fixed list of additives.
By July 1, 2032, vendors will be prohibited from offering UPFs in schools.

History

Historical Context

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, signed into law by President Obama in December 2010, aimed to combat childhood obesity by improving school meal nutrition standards. This legislation followed decades of rising childhood obesity rates, with 1 in 3 children reported as overweight or obese in 2010. California's Assembly Bill 1264 further addresses these concerns by phasing out ultra-processed foods in schools.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1264, the Real Food, Healthy Kids Act, on October 8, 2025, to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals.
The law establishes the first legal definition of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in the United States, focusing on harmful ingredients rather than a fixed list of additives.
By July 1, 2032, vendors will be prohibited from offering UPFs in schools.

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