The state of Louisiana is taking a big step in promoting healthier eating habits by introducing a new bill that will label harmful ingredients in food. This comes as part of the “Make America Healthy Again” program.
The Secretary of Health and Human Services recently visited Louisiana to sign the bill alongside Governor Landry, aiming to help Louisianans make informed choices about what they eat.
What’s in the Bill?
The bill, known as SB14, requires companies to list harmful chemicals, artificial colors, and additives found in food. It’s part of a growing movement to make the food industry more transparent.
The bill was signed into law in Louisiana with the support of RFK Jr., who has been advocating for food industry reform since his appointment in President Trump’s cabinet.
The goal of this new law is to ensure that consumers are well-informed about the ingredients in their food. Starting in 2028, products in Louisiana will need to carry warning labels that include a QR code, providing details about harmful ingredients like artificial dyes and additives.
Chemicals and Additives on the Warning List
Several chemicals and artificial ingredients will be included in the list of substances that must be highlighted with a warning label. Some of the ingredients include:
Aspartame
Bleached flour
Blue dye 1 (CAS 3844-45-9)
Blue dye 2 (CAS 860-22-0)
Citrus red dye 2 (CAS 6358-53-8)
Green dye 3 (CAS 2353-45-9)
Red dye 3 (CAS 16423-68-0)
Red dye 4 (CAS 4548-53-2)
Red dye 40 (CAS 25956-17-6)
Yellow dye 5 (CAS 1934-21-0)
Yellow dye 6 (CAS 2783-94-0)
These ingredients are widely used in processed foods, and research has raised concerns about their long-term health effects. With the new bill, consumers will be able to check products more easily and make better choices for their health.
The Focus on Schools and Local Farmers
Governor Landry emphasized that this bill is part of a broader initiative to improve public health by focusing on school foods and local agriculture. The bill includes a prohibition on several harmful ingredients in products sold in schools. Additionally, it encourages schools and government organizations to buy food from locally grown farms, aiming to promote healthier eating and support local economies.
Why Louisiana Took the Lead
Louisiana has long been known for its high rates of obesity, and this new bill aims to make a difference in tackling this problem. The “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative focuses on improving food safety, public health, and overall wellbeing.
Louisiana’s proactive stance in addressing harmful food ingredients and promoting healthy options is a key step in making the Bayou State a model for the rest of the country.