The bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to prohibit public schools from selling or offering competitive foods that contain unhealthy ultra-processed foods during the school day. A new section, Section 1422.4, is added to define "competitive food" as any food sold in competition with reimbursable meals under the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program. The bill outlines specific criteria for what constitutes an "ultra-processed food," including various additives and substances that are not typically found in whole foods, as well as the definition of "unhealthy ultra-processed food," which refers to those that do not meet certain nutritional labeling standards.

The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, giving schools time to adjust their food offerings in compliance with the new regulations. This legislative change aims to promote healthier eating habits among students by limiting access to foods that are deemed unhealthy due to their ultra-processed nature.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1417 (Apr 21, 2025): P.L.30, No.14