California becomes first state to ban harmful food additives

California made history when its governor signed a law that will make it the first state to ban the use of four food additives linked to various diseases, including cancer.

According to the newly-enacted California Food Safety Act, the manufacture, distribution and sale of foods containing red dye No. 3, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, or propylparaben will be prohibited.

These additives in food and beverages impact roughly 12,000 products like candy, fruit juices, and cookies.

The law takes effect in 2027, allowing ample time for industry adaptation. The move aligns California with nations like the EU, UK, Canada, Australia, China and Japan that have already banned these additives.