California's new law to phase out ultraprocessed school foods: Here's why it matters for children's health

California has passed a groundbreaking law that will phase out certain ultraprocessed foods from school meals over the next decade. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, this first-in-the-nation legislation aims to improve the nutritional quality of meals served to students across the state. Ultraprocessed foods—often packed with sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats—have been linked to various health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This new law sets a clear timeline to reduce these foods in schools, reflecting California's ongoing commitment to children's health and nutrition. Defining ultraprocessed foods and the timeline for change The law mandates that California's Department of Public Health establish definitions for "ultraprocessed foods of concern" and "restri