California is taking a significant step towards a ban on certain ingredients found in popular candies and processed foods. Assembly Bill 418, proposed by Assemblymembers Jesse Gabriel and Buffy Wicks, has passed the California State Assembly and is now moving forward for further consideration in the State Senate
AB 418 targets the inclusion of five specific chemical additives in food products. These ingredients include brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, red dye No. 3, and titanium dioxide. Various popular candies and drinks, contain one or more of these chemicals
The European Union has already taken action by banning the five listed chemicals from food products. Many major brands and manufacturers, including Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Gatorade, Dunkin', Papa John's, and Panera, have already made the switch to alternative ingredients, as they are used in Europe and several other countries.
While Assembly Bill 418 received approval in the California State Assembly, it faces opposition from the food and beverage industry and the National Confectioners Association. The bill will now proceed to the California Senate, where it will undergo further review and committee hearings