Bill > S4777

This bill amends existing New Jersey school nutrition regulations to prohibit the sale, distribution, and free promotion of food and beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners (commonly known as artificial sweeteners) in both public and nonpublic schools. Non-nutritive sweeteners are defined by federal regulation as substances that have less than two percent of the caloric value of sugar per equivalent unit of sweetening capacity. The bill builds upon previous legislation from 2007 that established nutritional standards for school food and beverages, adding a new provision that specifically bans these artificial sweeteners from school properties at any time during the school day. The prohibition applies to all school settings, including cafeterias, vending machines, school stores, and fundraisers, and extends to both special celebrations and regular meal services. The bill includes some exceptions for medically authorized special diets and students with specific dietary needs outlined in their Individual Education Plans, but maintains a strict stance on preventing the distribution of artificially sweetened products to school children.

Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4777