The iconic flavors of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Takis, and Doritos may soon be absent from California’s school cafeterias. A new bill aims to restrict the sale of these popular snacks due to concerns over their artificial additives.

In California schools, the days are numbered for snacks like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, certain cereals, baked goods, and other products containing synthetic food dyes. State legislators have sent a bill to Governor Gavin Newsom that would, starting in 2028, ban schools from distributing or selling products containing six common food dyes: Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3.

While these products could still be sold elsewhere in the state, the ban specifically targets public and charter schools in California.

The Study Behind the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Ban

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, a Democrat from Encino and the bill’s author, stated that these “dangerous” synthetic ingredients “harm our children and interfere with their ability to learn.“

Gabriel referenced a state study that links synthetic food dyes to hyperactivity and behavioral issues in children. He emphasized that the bill received bipartisan support and backing from doctors, teachers, and agricultural groups.

The bill passed the Assembly with a unanimous vote of 55-0.

Health Risks of Synthetic Food Dyes

Lorne J. Hofseth, a professor and associate dean for research at the University of South Carolina’s College of Pharmacy, discussed the connection between colorectal cancer and artificial food dyes in an article for The Conversation.

Hofseth suggested that one factor behind this trend is the global shift toward a Westernized diet, characterized by high consumption of red and processed meats, added sugars, and refined grains. He noted that 60% of the standard American diet (SAD) consists of ultra-processed foods like industrially baked sweets, sodas, and processed meats, which are associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

“Although none of the FDA-approved synthetic food dyes are classified as carcinogens, current research points to potential health risks that I and others find concerning,” Hofseth explained.

Studies have shown that artificial food dyes can bind to DNA and proteins within cells. There is also some evidence that synthetic dyes may trigger the body’s inflammatory responses. Both mechanisms could pose risks to colon and rectal health, according to Hofseth.

What do you think about this measure and the studies highlighting potential health risks?