California bans ultra-processed foods in schools

California just became the first U.S. state to ban ultra-processed foods in schools. According to The Guardian, the law takes effect in 2035, giving schools a decade to phase out junk like chips, sugary cereals, and artificial snacks.

Why this matters to you

This isn’t about picky eating — it’s about disease prevention. Studies link ultra-processed foods to obesity, diabetes, depression, and early death. Over 70% of the average American diet comes from this stuff. Kids eat it every day at school because it’s cheap and easy.

Think about it

If your child eats two school meals a day, five days a week, that’s 10 meals every week shaped by the food industry — not nutritionists. California’s move forces schools to start feeding students real food again.

The bigger picture

This might trigger a national trend. When California acts, other states usually follow. Expect new fights over what counts as “ultra-processed” — and which companies will lose billions in contracts.

What you can do now

• Check your pantry. If the ingredients list has more than five items you can’t pronounce, it’s probably ultra-processed.
• Push your local school board to publish its meal supplier list.
• Vote with your wallet: choose real food over fake food.

The health revolution isn’t coming from Silicon Valley. It’s starting in the lunchroom.