This bill amends existing legislation to prohibit the sale and distribution of food and beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners in both public and nonpublic schools in New Jersey. The new legal language specifies that starting from the effective date of the bill, no school shall serve, sell, or allow third parties to sell or give away food or beverages containing these sweeteners on school property. Non-nutritive sweeteners are defined as substances with less than two percent of the caloric value of sucrose per equivalent unit of sweetening capacity, as per federal regulations.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing restrictions on the sale of foods of minimal nutritional value, items with sugar as the first ingredient, and candy, while also setting standards for fat and sugar content in snacks and beverages sold during the school day. It clarifies that food and beverages served during special school celebrations or curriculum-related activities are exempt from these provisions, except for those containing non-nutritive sweeteners. The bill aims to promote healthier food options for students and enhance their overall nutrition.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:33-16