WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 2423

Local Education Agencies - As introduced, expands from only those containing Allura Red AC, also known as Red 40, to those containing any artificial food dye, the food or beverage items an LEA or public charter school is prohibited from selling, offering for sale, or providing to students on school property through the school nutrition program or through a third party authorized by the LEA or public charter school. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rusty Crowe

Tennessee bill expands school food restrictions to ban all artificial dyes, not just Red 40, raising costs and implementation questions amid mixed scientific evidence.

Recommended for passage with amendment/s, refer to Senate Calendar Committee Ayes 8, Nays 0 PNV 1
#localeducationagencies
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2423

Legislative bill overview

SB 2423 expands Tennessee's existing restrictions on artificial food dyes in school food programs. Currently, schools are prohibited from selling items containing only Red 40 (Allura Red AC); this bill extends that ban to all artificial food dyes. The restrictions apply to items sold, offered for sale, or provided through school nutrition programs and authorized third parties on school property.

Why is this important

School nutrition policies affect what millions of students consume daily and can influence long-term eating habits and health outcomes. This expansion reflects growing concern about artificial additives, though scientific consensus on their effects remains mixed and debated among health organizations. The change will require schools to reformulate menus, potentially affecting food suppliers, costs, and product availability.

Potential points of contention

  • Scientific evidence gap: While some studies suggest artificial dyes may affect behavior in sensitive children, major health organizations (FDA, American Academy of Pediatrics) have not issued blanket bans, leaving disagreement about whether legislation is premature
  • Cost and menu limitations: Eliminating all artificial dyes may increase food costs for school districts and reduce available product options, potentially impacting nutrition quality or requiring higher budgets
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "artificial food dye" may be unclear in practice (e.g., does it include naturally-derived colorants processed synthetically?), creating implementation challenges for schools and vendors

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

Sign in to ask a question.