SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday issued an executive order to address the growing health risks posed by ultra-processed foods and synthetic food dyes.
Building on California’s national leadership in promoting healthy dietary standards, the Governor’s executive actions will reduce consumption of harmful food ingredients and give Golden Staters access to healthier and more affordable foods. Directs state agencies to evaluate and recommend actions to expand .
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“The food we eat should not make us sick or have lifelong effects.” We have long been a leader in eliminating ultra-processed foods, and we will continue to work with industry, consumers and experts to crack down on ultra-processed foods.” and creating a healthier future for all Californians. ”
Main provisions of the executive order
According to the Governor’s Office, the executive order calls for several state-level actions aimed at promoting healthier lives, including:
Recommendations regarding ultra-processed foods and hazardous ingredients: This directive provides advice on measures to limit health risks associated with ultra-processed foods and food ingredients known to pose risks, including synthetic dyes. It directs state agencies to do so. Ongoing research on food dyes: The California Department of Public Health plans to continue research into the negative health effects of synthetic food dyes, and the National Institute of Natural Health has concluded that synthetic food dyes are linked to behavioral and developmental problems in children. It is reported that Incentivize Healthy Eating: This order would encourage CalFresh program recipients to purchase fresh, nutritious foods while reducing purchases of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods, such as soda and candy. The purpose is Supporting community health initiatives: Leverage Medi-Cal managed care plans and hospital community benefit funds to increase access to healthy foods in underserved areas and address “food deserts” across the state. I’m considering fighting. Improving School Nutrition Standards: This order requires California to identify areas where it may exceed national standards for school meals and ensure that students have access to healthier and more nutritious options. That’s what I’m aiming for. Expanding Universal School Lunch Programs: The order also explores new partnerships and standards aimed at expanding access to school lunch programs for all students and accelerating efforts to eliminate food insecurity. Burn Ban Day Warning for Southern California Region Extended through Friday Night
Public health initiatives
California has long been at the forefront of efforts to improve public health through improved nutrition. The executive order is a continuation of the state’s efforts to combat chronic diseases related to poor diets, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The effort comes as the latest 2025 Dietary Guidelines highlight an alarming trend: 73% of U.S. adults over the age of 20 are overweight or obese, and nearly 40% of teens are pre-diabetic. This is consistent with the findings of the advisory committee report.
“Through today’s executive order, we are making decisive and transformative efforts to further California’s commitment to prioritizing health and nutrition as fundamental building blocks of thriving communities.” First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom said. “By connecting the dots between whole foods, mental health, and strong cognition, we are creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. , a powerful movement toward health, equity, and a California for all children.”
Addressing the growing health crisis
The governor’s new initiative comes as the country faces a public health crisis. According to the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a healthy diet can significantly lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, but many Americans still need a nutritious diet. facing barriers to accessing food.
Mr. Newsom’s executive order prioritizes policies that not only combat obesity and prevent chronic disease, but also ensure that all communities, especially the most vulnerable, have access to the resources they need to thrive. , which aims to provide a vision for a healthier California.
For more information, you can read the full executive order here.
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