Texas Governor’s Bill on Food Labeling
A bill is currently awaiting Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s approval, aimed at improving transparency within the food industry. Specifically, Senate Bill 25 mandates that food products containing certain ingredients display warning labels on their packaging.
The bill targets a range of snacks, including chips, candies, and sodas, requiring labels that read: “Warning: This product contains ingredients that are not recommended for human consumption.”
It identifies 44 specific ingredients, such as synthetic food dyes and bleached powders. For example, M&Ms contain a mix of dyes, needing the precautionary label. Trix cereals also feature colors deemed questionable, while Doritos include multiple synthetic hues.
Should the bill be enacted, the labeling must be placed prominently for consumers to see clearly. It stipulates that manufacturers must disclose “artificial colors, food additives, or other chemical ingredients prohibited by countries like Canada, the European Union, or the UK.”
As a context, research indicates that 73% of the food supply in the U.S. is classified as ultra-highly processed, and Americans consume around 57% of ultra-processed foods.
“The industry is committed to transparency and has long invested in product transparency tools that help consumers make informed choices for themselves and their families,” stated a representative from the Consumer Brands Association (CBA), which includes major manufacturers like General Mills and PepsiCo.
In January, the FDA imposed a ban on red dye 3, linked to cancer risks, which is also included in the bill. Despite this, the CBA is advocating for Abbott to veto the bill, arguing that the labeling would lead to inaccurate warnings and potential legal issues for brands, as well as increased consumer confusion and costs.
John Hewitt from CBA emphasized that the food industry prioritizes safety and that the ingredients used are subject to rigorous scientific assessments.
Recently, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy expressed the need for further discussions regarding proper identification of products adhering to the phase-out of certain dyes, indicating a need for transparency and consumer education in food products.
If signed into law, the provision for labeling will take effect on January 1, 2027.
