News By: Mansi Nautiyal
In a historic move, California has taken a pioneering step in safeguarding the health of its residents by enacting the California Food Safety Act. Governor Gavin Newsom signed this groundbreaking legislation into law, marking the first instance in the United States where four harmful chemicals have been banned from various processed foods, including candy, cereal, and soda, sold and produced within the state.
The Banned Chemicals
The law, authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills), puts an end to the use of four concerning food additives:
International Precedent and Support
European regulators have already banned these chemicals, with only a limited exception for Red Dye No. 3 in candied cherries. Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, who chairs the state Assembly Committee on Privacy and Consumer Protection, emphasized the importance of protecting children and families in California from toxic food chemicals. He stated that the law will not prohibit any foods or products but will require food companies to make minor adjustments to their recipes and adopt safer alternative ingredients that are already in use in Europe and many other parts of the world.
Support from Influential Organizations
Two influential non-governmental organizations, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Consumer Reports, threw their support behind the California bill. EWG President Ken Cook commended Governor Newsom for prioritizing the health of Californians and recognized California’s role in creating a healthier market for consumers.
Potential Nationwide Impact
The implications of this pioneering law extend far beyond California’s borders, as it may impact food products throughout the United States. Given the size of California’s economy, it is unlikely that manufacturers will produce separate versions of their products for California and the rest of the country. Up to 12,000 products could be affected, based on EWG’s Food Scores database.
Children’s Vulnerability and FDA Oversight
Children, in particular, are vulnerable to chemical exposure due to their lower tolerance levels and developing bodies. In the United States, over 10,000 chemicals are permitted for use in food, with the majority approved by the food and chemical industry rather than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is responsible for ensuring the safety of the food supply. Notably, the chemicals banned under California’s law have not undergone FDA review in decades, if ever.
Consumer Reports Food Policy Director, Brian Ronholm, emphasized the significance of California’s move, stating that the state had taken a crucial stand for food safety when the FDA failed to take action. Ronholm also called for safer versions of food products available in other countries to be made accessible to U.S. consumers.
Petitions for FDA Intervention
The Environmental Working Group has further raised hope for change by supporting two petitions under consideration by the FDA. These petitions call for the revocation of approval for titanium dioxide and Red Dye No. 3 in food, providing an opportunity for the FDA to enhance food safety regulations and protect the health of consumers nationwide.
Conclusion: A Pioneering Step in Food Safety
In conclusion, California’s pioneering ban on harmful food chemicals marks a significant milestone in food safety, setting a precedent for other states to follow. It underscores the importance of continued efforts to ensure the safety of the food supply and protect the well-being of all consumers across the United States.