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H 868

An act relating to prohibiting the use of ultra-processed foods in school food programs

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Bartholomew and 16 co-sponsors

Vermont bill would ban ultra-processed foods from school meals to improve student nutrition, though faces hurdles on cost, supply chains, and defining what counts as "ultra-processed."

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry
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Bill Summary · H 868

Legislative bill overview

H 868 would prohibit ultra-processed foods from being served in Vermont school food programs, including breakfast, lunch, and other meal services. The bill aims to improve student nutrition by eliminating highly processed food products from school cafeterias and related food services.

Why is this important

School meals are a primary source of nutrition for many students, particularly those from lower-income families who may rely on these meals throughout the day. The health impacts of ultra-processed foods—including increased obesity, dental problems, and metabolic disorders among children—make this a public health policy decision with long-term consequences for student wellbeing and educational outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition challenges: "Ultra-processed foods" lacks a universally agreed scientific definition, making implementation ambiguous. Different classification systems (NOVA, etc.) categorize foods differently, creating potential disputes over compliance.
  • Cost and feasibility: Eliminating ultra-processed foods could significantly increase food procurement costs for schools already operating on tight budgets, potentially requiring substantial budget increases or menu reductions.
  • Supply chain disruption: Schools may struggle to source adequate quantities of whole, minimally-processed foods at scale, and farmers/suppliers may need time to adjust production capacity to meet new demand.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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