Introduction to New School Meal Policy
When school starts in West Virginia next month, 240,000 pupils will notice that something is missing in their cafeteria food. Red Jell-O cups, yogurt with colorful sprinkles, and cool ranch Doritos – all foods containing synthetic dyes – will no longer be available.
The New Law
In March, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey signed a comprehensive new law banning seven artificial dyes from school meals. The law, which takes effect on August 1st, is the first of its kind to be implemented in the United States. Other states have issued similar laws, but West Virginia’s action is the most significant.
Impact on School Meals
The ban on synthetic dyes has triggered a four-month sprint for the state and local nutrition directors to revamp their school meal programs. Tony Cago, director of child nutrition for the West Virginia Department of Education, said, "I think the first reaction was: ‘Wow, what will we do? Where do we start?’" The managers of school food programs have been reviewing district food lists to identify dozens of products that contain any of the banned synthetic dyes, including Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3.
Challenges and Opportunities
The ban on synthetic dyes in West Virginia has been cheered on by health advocates, who have long demanded the removal of these dyes from food products. However, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that the color additives are safe in the amounts and products approved by the agency if used correctly. Most children have no problems consuming the dyes, but some evidence suggests that certain children may be sensitive to them.
Effects on Food Manufacturers
The law aims to stop potential health effects of the dyes, which have been associated with neuro-behavioral problems such as hyperactivity and attention problems in some children. The move is part of a greater focus on limiting artificial ingredients in food. General Mills, a major food manufacturer, has already removed artificial dyes from 98% of its products for schools and plans to remove the dyes from school food nationwide next summer.
Finding Alternatives
The challenge for school food directors is to find replacement foods that are still appealing to children. Diane Miller, who heads the food and nutrition services for the Kanawha district, said, "Because the last thing we want to do is decide not to participate in our school lunch program." The schools provide many students with their healthiest meals of the day, and it is essential to find alternatives that are both healthy and appealing.
Parental Reaction
Parents of children with sensitivities or allergies to artificial dyes have already expressed concerns about the presence of synthetic colors in school meals. However, for others, the issue is not a major concern. Chris Derico, nutrition director of the Barbor County Schools, said that only a few parents seemed to worry about dyes. "I think they are in the minority," he said. "In rural West Virginia, I don’t think it’s really on radar screens."
Conclusion
The ban on synthetic dyes in West Virginia school meals is a significant step towards promoting healthier eating habits among children. While the move may not address the main drivers of America’s chronic health problems, it is a step in the right direction. As Jerold Mande, a nutrition expert at Harvard University, said, "The target on them could be a way to let companies know that the way they make food is unacceptable."
