Bill > S1826

This bill addresses ultra-processed foods in Florida's public schools by establishing new regulations and legislative findings. The bill defines ultra-processed food as any food or beverage containing specific ingredients like potassium bromate, certain artificial dyes (such as Yellow 5, Blue 1, and Red 40), and other synthetic additives. It prohibits public schools from serving or selling these foods during the school day, based on legislative findings that such foods contribute to childhood obesity and are not nutritionally beneficial. The bill critiques the United States Department of Agriculture's 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines, suggesting they are outdated and influenced by the food industry. Starting July 1, 2025, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will be discouraged from requiring schools to follow these guidelines and instead encouraged to provide meals composed of whole, minimally processed foods. While schools cannot serve ultra-processed foods, parents are still allowed to send such foods with their children. The department is authorized to create rules to implement these provisions, with the overall goal of improving student nutrition and wellness.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1826