Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 418, also known as the California Food Safety Act, into law on October 7.
The legislation prohibits the use of four additives in around 12,000 candies, cereals, and sodas.
FInitially, there were concerns about Skittles disappearing from shelves, but the final bill excluded titanium dioxide, saving the colorful candy.
Banned additives include red dye 3, propylparaben, brominated vegetable oil, and potassium bromate.
These additives have been linked to carcinogenic or neurotoxic effects, and endocrine and reproductive damage.
California is the first U.S. state to enforce such a ban, following the European Union’s lead.
Consumer Reports co-sponsored the bill, emphasizing its “groundbreaking” nature and strong bipartisan support
Manufacturers have until 2027 to reformulate recipes without the banned additives.
FDA approval of these substances raised concerns due to the lack of recent reviews, as noted by the Environmental Working Group.
Critics argue the ban is unnecessary, while supporters, like Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel, aim to encourage companies to adjust their recipes for consumer safety.