California Phases Out Ultra Processed School Meals

California has passed a landmark bill making it the first U.S. state to phase out certain ultra-processed foods from school meals over the next decade. The legislation tasks the California Department of Public Health with defining “ultra-processed foods of concern” by mid-2028. Schools must begin phasing out those foods by July 2029, and are barred from serving them in breakfasts and lunches by July 2035. Vendors will also be prohibited from supplying those foods by 2032.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed the measure citing California’s history of leadership on school nutrition—he previously led efforts to ban synthetic dyes and expand free school meals. The law builds on an executive order Newsom issued in January 2025 targeting ultra-processed foods, sugar, and additives.

Some school districts are already ahead of the curve. For example, Morgan Hill Unified School District no longer serves sugary cereals, flavored milk, or deep-fried items, prioritizing scratch-made meals sourced locally. Western Placer Unified District reports that about 60% of its menu is now scratch or semi-homemade.

Public health advocates point to growing evidence that diets heavy in ultra-processed foods (foods engineered with additives, flavor enhancers, emulsifiers, sweeteners, etc.) are associated with obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic health conditions. Some critics caution that not all “ultra-processed” items are inherently unhealthy (e.g., certain whole-grain breads or fortified foods).

Opponents — including the California School Boards Association — warn that implementing the law will be costly for school districts, especially since the legislation does not provide new funding to offset the transition. They argue districts might need to reallocate funds or reduce other services to comply.

Main Points

California’s new law phases out “ultra-processed foods of concern” from school meals, to be fully banned in breakfasts & lunches by 2035.
The Department of Public Health must define which foods qualify by mid-2028.
Vendors will be barred from supplying restricted items by 2032.
Many districts are already reformulating menus with scratch cooking and local sourcing.
The law builds on previous actions by Newsom banning synthetic dyes and expanding free meals.
Critics cite funding and implementation burdens for districts, especially lacking additional state support.

Projections & What It Could Mean

Potential Positive Outcomes

Health benefits for students — Reduced exposure to high sugar, artificial additives, and heavily processed items could help curb childhood obesity, prediabetes, and related chronic conditions over time.
Catalyst for broader reform — As the first state to enact such a measure, California’s policy could set a precedent nationally, encouraging other states or even federal standards.
Local agricultural support — Schools sourcing more fresh, minimally processed food may increase demand for local farms and sustainable supply chains.
Nutrition education and habits — Students accustomed to healthier meals may carry preferences and knowledge into adulthood.

Potential Challenges & Risks

Costs & resource strain — Reformulating menus, redesigning supply chains, and training staff may disproportionately burden smaller or rural districts with limited budgets.
Definition ambiguity — Determining exactly which foods count as “ultra-processed of concern” will be contentious and potentially lead to legal or regulatory disputes.
Unintended restrictions — Some processed foods that are relatively healthy may get swept out, reducing menu variety or nutrition if not carefully defined.
Equity issues — Wealthier districts may adapt more easily, while underfunded schools lag behind, exacerbating nutritional inequities across districts.
Policy pushback or rollback — Future legislators or administrations might resist enforcement, especially if districts complain about undue burden.

Sources

Reuters
Ap News