The governor of California has concerns about "ultra-processed foods" like packaged snacks and sugary drinks.
California Plans to ‘Crack Down’ on Ultra-Processed Foods—Here’s What That Means
Published on Jan. 03, 2025
If you’ve ever read the list of ingredients on a snack food label and thought, I wonder if any of that is good for me, you’re not the only one. Your packaged snack, like a bag of chips, a box of crackers or a candy bar, probably falls into the category of “ultra-processed foods.”
To enhance taste, texture, appearance and shelf life, ultra-processed foods contain chemically modified substances extracted from food along with other additives, but minimal to no whole foods. Research has linked ultra-processed foods to cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and increased risk for certain cancers, among other health problems.
Today, Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, issued an executive order to crack down on ultra-processed foods. He asked the California Department of Public Health to recommend ways to “limit the harms associated with ‘ultra-processed foods’ and food ingredients that pose a health risk to individuals.”
What are ultra-processed foods?
Foods in this category “are made mostly from substances extracted from foods, such as fats, starches, added sugars and hydrogenated fats,” according to Harvard Medical School. This kind of highly processed food may also contain artificial colors and flavors. You’ll recognize common examples: fast food, packaged snack foods, frozen meals, sugary beverages and even hot dogs.
Compare that to “processed foods,” which may contain added salt, sugar or oil. This category includes things like homemade bread, natural peanut butter, applesauce and canned vegetables.
Not all processed foods are inherently unhealthy. However, ultra-processed foods are associated with greater risks of obesity or being overweight, which in turn is associated with chronic health conditions.
“The food we eat shouldn’t make us sick with disease or lead to lifelong consequences,” Newsom said.
Will California ban ultra-processed foods?
No, there is no plan to ban ultra-processed foods. Right now, the Governor’s Office is looking for recommendations on actions to take, like requiring warning labels on certain ultra-processed foods. Newsom has also asked the California Department of Social Services to recommend ways the state can reduce the purchase of soda, candy and other ultra-processed foods. In addition, California wants to adopt higher standards for its universal school food programs, according to the executive order.
How will this change things for the rest of us?
Because California has such a significant economic influence on the rest of the country, this executive order could eventually lead to a crackdown on ultra-processed foods at the federal level. (This is similar to our take on the recent food label change in California.)
Don’t expect to see major changes happen overnight, though. For now, seek to follow the dietary guidelines set by the USDA:
- Make half your plate fruits and vegetables
- Make half your grains whole grains
- Limit foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat and sodium
Keep in mind that less-processed versions of many grocery store foods can be made at home. If you want to change your eating pattern, discuss your plan with a healthcare professional (like your doctor or a registered dietitian).
