California to Ban Ingredients Used In Skittles And Other Candy
Certain foods contain specific ingredients that may not be ideal for our long-term health. These food additives are typically used to enhance a product’s flavor, appearance, or texture. They can also prolong its shelf life. While some substances have been linked to adverse health effects and should be avoided, others are considered safe and can be consumed with minimal risk. Starting in 2027, California will officially prohibit the sale of Skittles and other candies within the state. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed bill AB 418, also known as The California Food Safety Act.
A ban on Skittles and other sweets like PEZ, Hot Tamales, and Dubble Bubble gum.
Effective January 1, 2027, the legislation focuses on food products that include brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, or red dye 3. Red dye 3 is present in Skittles and other sweets like PEZ, Hot Tamales, and Dubble Bubble gum, while brominated vegetable oil is typically found in citrus soft drinks.
The California Food Safety Act states that “a person or entity shall not manufacture, sell, deliver, distribute, hold, or offer for sale, in commerce a food product for human consumption” that contains the substances listed above. It also outlines penalties for violations, with a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for a first offense. For subsequent offenses, up to $10,000, as enforced by the Attorney General, city attorney, county counsel, or district attorney.
This bill and its impact.
Governor Newsom’s office issued a statement following the bill’s signing, addressing some of the misconceptions surrounding it. “There have been many misconceptions about this bill and its impacts. For example, attached to this message is a bag of the popular candy Skittles, which became the face of this proposal.” It continued, “This particular bag of candy comes from the European Union – a place that already bans a number of chemical additives and colorants.” He went on to state that this is demonstrable proof that the food industry is capable of maintaining product lines while complying with different public health laws, country to country.
National Confectioners Association voiced its objections.
In response to the bill, the National Confectioners Association voiced its objections. “They’re making decisions based on soundbites rather than science. Governor Newsom’s approval of this bill will undermine consumer confidence and create confusion around food safety,” they said. They continued to state that this law replaces a uniform national food safety system with a patchwork of inconsistent state requirements created by legislative fiat that will increase food costs. “This is a slippery slope that the FDA could prevent by engaging on this important topic. We should be relying on the scientific rigor of the FDA in terms of evaluating the safety of food ingredients and additives,” they added.
9 Worst Trick or Treat Handouts for Halloween
Key Chains
Keychains are handy, but they’re not exactly the kind of treasure kids hope to find in their candy haul. They want stuff that’s sweet, not stuff for keys they don’t have. Save yourself some money and pass on key chains.
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Hygiene Products
We all know cleanliness is important, but getting soap, shampoo, or hand sanitizer in your treat bag on Halloween is not what kids look forward to. It’s a treat, not a trip to the pharmacy. It’s like getting socks for Christmas. While practical, it’s not exactly exciting.
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Loose Change
Coins may have been an acceptable treat decades ago, but nowadays, they’re seen as disappointing. Kids prefer candy. Or maybe small toys (if they’re exciting/cool enough). Unless, you’re giving away the big bucks, steer clear of this one.
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Trail Mix
Healthy snacks are great, but Halloween is all about the sugar rush. Kids aren’t exactly thrilled to find a mix of fruit and nuts in their bag. They’re hoping for chocolates and gummies, not something they associate with after-school snacks.
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Coupons
Adults may appreciate coupons for discounts at local businesses, but they don’t make for a fun Halloween treat for kids. Saving money is cool, but Halloween is all about instant gratification. And coupons for discounts don’t really make the cut.
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Brochures or Pamphlets
Halloween is not the time to distribute religious or informational materials. Kids are looking for fun and treats, not pamphlets. Consider giving those away another day that’s not Halloween.
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Toothbrushes and Dental Floss
Halloween is all about the candy, right? So, if you toss a toothbrush or dental floss into a kid’s stash of treats, you’re basically inviting disappointment. Plus, it’s safe to assume that the trick-or-treater already has a toothbrush. Do they truly need another one?
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Unwrapped Candy
Throwing unwrapped candy into a plastic pumpkin? That’s just asking for a sticky mess. Plus, it’s not the cleanest option. And given the concerns these days, it’s just another worry for parents who fear someone might mess with their child’s candy.
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Homemade Treats
Those fancy homemade snacks that look like they came straight from Pinterest can be cute, but if you don’t really know the kids or their parents, they might wonder about your intentions. Sticking to pre-packaged treats is your best bet on Halloween, especially if you’re trying to keep trick-or-treating simple and sanitary.
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