The proposed bill, known as the Protect Our Kids' Food Act, aims to prohibit the use of specific color additives in meals provided by public schools. The bill identifies certain color additives, including FD&C blue number 1, FD&C red number 40, and FD&C yellow number 5, among others, that are recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as potentially harmful. The new legal language inserted into RSA 189:11-a establishes that no public elementary or secondary school shall offer or make available any food containing these additives as part of school meals or competitive foods. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2028.

The bill reflects a growing concern about the nutritional value of food dyes and their potential health risks for children. It highlights that some food brands already produce similar products without these additives in other countries, indicating a shift towards healthier options. The fiscal impact of the bill is currently indeterminable, as it may lead to varying costs for school districts, including higher food costs and potential changes in procurement procedures. The Department of Education has been contacted regarding the implications of this legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 189:11-a
SB577 text: 189:11-a