Bill > HB439

This bill amends Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 158.850 to define and restrict ultra-processed foods in schools, introducing several key provisions. The bill defines "ultra-processed food" as any food product containing specific chemical substances, including brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and various artificial food dyes with their corresponding Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) numbers. Currently, schools are limited to offering retail fast foods only one day per week, but starting in the 2026-2027 school year, schools will be prohibited from selling or providing ultra-processed foods to students during the school day. This ban applies comprehensively across cafeterias, vending machines, school stores, canteens, and student, teacher, or group fundraisers. The legislation explicitly clarifies that the restrictions do not apply to fundraisers conducted off school property or outside of school hours. By targeting specific chemical additives and limiting their presence in school food environments, the bill aims to promote healthier nutrition for students by reducing their exposure to potentially harmful processed foods.

Education

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/hb439.html