SALT LAKE CITY — A year ago, the Utah Legislature enacted a law to ban specific ingredients in school lunches throughout the state. This year, a lawmaker aims to expand that list.
The proposed bill, HB350, introduced by Rep. Kristen Chevrier, R-Highland, aligns with the Trump administration’s recent Make America Healthy Again initiative, spearheaded by Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
In addition to adding another restricted ingredient for Utah schools, the bill will also widen the scope of schools that must adhere to the new regulations.
Chevrier noted that the original concept came from a couple of mothers who were concerned about healthier food options for their children. “This is something I’ve been interested in for a long time,” she added.
As a mother with daughters who have food sensitivities and allergies, Chevrier has always been vigilant about food ingredients.
HB350 is one of three bills Chevrier is promoting this legislative session that focus on food ingredients, chemicals, and overall consumption patterns.
Prohibiting Titanium Dioxide from School Cafeterias
While last year’s legislation excluded rural and charter schools, HB350 extends the ban to include rural schools, though charter schools have not yet been included, as Chevrier continues her efforts to gain their support.
This year, titanium dioxide has been added to the list of ingredients that schools cannot serve. Chevrier emphasized the need for this addition, citing emerging scientific evidence suggesting potential health concerns.
Titanium dioxide is not commonly found in many foods but is typically used to enhance the whiteness of products like skim milk, toothpaste, and chewing gum.
Another significant adjustment in this year’s bill is the exclusion of food pantries in schools from the list of prohibited ingredients. Chevrier remarked, “We want as much food as possible for those in need. While healthier options are preferred, sometimes having something in your stomach is better than nothing.”
The current list of prohibited ingredients for food served or sold on school premises includes:
- Potassium bromate
- Propylparaben
- Titanium dioxide
- Blue No. 1
- Blue No. 2
- Green No. 3
- Red No. 3
- Red No. 40
- Yellow No. 5
- Yellow No. 6
This bill will not restrict parents from providing their children with food containing these ingredients; it only governs what schools can serve. Chevrier acknowledged that the Make America Healthy Again movement has aided her efforts in promoting similar legislation, as public attitudes towards these issues have begun to shift.
Requiring Clear Labeling for Feminine Hygiene Products
In addition, Chevrier has proposed another bill, HB442, which mandates that manufacturers clearly label the chemicals present in feminine hygiene products.
According to Chevrier, many of these chemicals can be traced back to natural sources, such as soil or agricultural chemicals, making it essential for product packaging to indicate whether the substances were intentionally added.
“I believe this provides valuable information and raises awareness, enabling people to make informed choices,” Chevrier stated.
Regulating the Sale of Raw Milk in Utah
Another piece of legislation introduced by Chevrier pertains to the sale of raw milk in Utah. The bill, HB179, aims to simplify the process for producers to reach consumers who prefer raw milk.
Chevrier clarified, “Drinking raw milk is not something everyone needs to do, and that’s perfectly fine.”
Currently, producers of raw milk face challenges in selling their products in retail settings. This bill intends to not only streamline this process but also ensure that raw milk is clearly labeled for consumer awareness.
“We want to ensure that if it’s offered in a mainstream grocery store, there’s no confusion. It will be distinctly separated from other milk and prominently labeled ‘raw milk’ with handling instructions,” Chevrier explained.
While some safety concerns about raw milk consumption exist, Chevrier emphasized that proper hygiene and adherence to regulations should mitigate risks. However, concerns have arisen, notably after a newborn in New Mexico died from a listeria infection likely linked to the mother’s consumption of raw milk during pregnancy, as reported by USA Today.
In summary, the proposed bills by Rep. Chevrier aim to enhance the health and safety of food options available to Utah’s schoolchildren while also addressing transparency in product labeling. These initiatives reflect a growing awareness of the importance of health-aware legislation and consumer choice.
