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HB 134

Local Education Agencies - As enacted, requires, beginning August 1, 2027, each LEA and public charter school to prohibit food or beverage items that contain Allura Red AC, which is Chemical Abstracts Service registry number 25956-17-6 and also known as Red 40, to be sold, offered for sale, or provided to students on school property through the school nutrition program provided by the LEA, public charter school, or a third party expressly authorized by the LEA or public charter school. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Elaine Davis

Tennessee schools must eliminate Red 40 food dye from student meals by August 2027, restricting artificial additives in cafeteria nutrition programs.

Pub. Ch. 476
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Bill Summary · HB 134

Legislative bill overview

HB 134 requires Tennessee schools and public charter schools to eliminate foods and beverages containing Allura Red AC (Red 40 food dye) from their nutrition programs by August 1, 2027. The ban applies to items sold, offered for sale, or provided to students on school property through official school meal programs or authorized vendors.

Why is this important

Food dye regulations have become increasingly controversial as some parents and advocates claim links between artificial dyes and behavioral issues in children, though scientific consensus remains mixed. This legislation directly affects what millions of Tennessee students can consume during the school day and reflects a broader national trend of states restricting artificial food additives in schools, following California's lead.

Potential points of contention

  • Scientific debate: Major health organizations (FDA, American Academy of Pediatrics) have not conclusively established that Red 40 poses significant health risks for most children, making the restriction arguably precautionary rather than evidence-based
  • Cost and availability: Food manufacturers will need reformulation time and costs may increase; alternative dye-free products may be more expensive or limited in variety, potentially affecting school budgets and meal quality
  • Scope limitations: The ban only covers school nutrition programs, leaving students free to bring or purchase dyed foods elsewhere, which some argue limits effectiveness while creating inconsistent messaging

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

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