Chemical-Free School Meals
Join the movement to eliminate harmful artificial dyes, preservatives, and toxic
chemicals from school cafeterias nationwide. Our children's health depends on it.
200+
Banned chemicals still in US
school food
50M
Students exposed to harmful
additives daily
5
States considering food dye
bans
The Hidden Crisis in Our
School Cafeterias
While other countries have banned harmful food chemicals, American schools continue serving meals loaded with artificial dyes, preservatives, and toxic additives that put our children's health at risk.
3,000+
Food additives approved in US
vs. 400 in EU
95%
Of school meals contain chemicals
banned in other countries
30%
Increase in ADHD diagnoses
since 1990s
0
Federal regulations on dyes
in school meals
Common Harmful Chemicals in School Meals
Red Dye 40
Found in: Fruit snacks, beverages, desserts
Health Risk: Hyperactivity, behavioral changes
Yellow Dye 5
Found in: Mac & cheese, chips, candy
Health Risk: Allergic reactions, attention issues
BHA/BHT
Found in: Processed meats, cereals
Health Risk: Potential carcinogen, hormonal disruption
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Found in: Drinks, baked goods, sauces
Health Risk: Obesity, diabetes, liver damage
Other Countries Are Protecting Their Children
Voluntary removal of artificial colors from
children's food
United Kingdom
Voluntary removal of artificial colors from children's food
Canada
Stricter regulations on food additives and preservatives
The Real Cost of
Chemical-Laden School Food
Scientific research reveals alarming connections between artificial food chemicals and serious health
problems in children. The evidence is overwhelming.
Cognitive & Behavioral Issues
Artificial dyes linked to hyperactivity, attention deficits, and learning difficulties
Studies show 15-20% increase in ADHD symptems
Allergic Reactions
Food dyes can trigger asthma, hives, and severe allergic responses in sensitive children
Affects up to 4% of children
Metabolic Disruption
Preservatives and artificial sweeteners disrupt hormones and metabolism
Childhood obesity rates doubled since 1980
Long-term Health Risks
Potential links to cancer, developmental issues, and chronic diseases
200+ chemicals under FDA review
What the Research Shows
73%
of children show improved behavior after
removing artificial dyes
Southampton Study, 2007
2.4x
higher risk of ADHD in children
consuming artificial colors
Meta-analysis, 2012
89%
of parents report positive changes after diet modification
Parent Survey, 2023
Real Stories from Real Families
Sarah Martinez
Mother of 2, Teacher
"After our school switched to chemical-free
meals, I noticed my daughter's focus
improved dramatically. She's calmer and
more attentive in class."
Austin, TX
Dr. James Chen
Peciatric Nutriticnist
"The research is clear: artificial food dyes
have no nutritional value and pose real
health risks to developing brains. We must
act now"
Seattle, WA
Mike Thompson
Scheol Principal
"Since remaving artificial dyes from our
cafeteria, we've seen a 30% reduction in
behavioral referrais. The difference is
remarkable."
Denver, CO
Our Children Can't Wait Any Longer
Every day we delay action, more children suffer the consequences of toxic school meals.
Join the Fight for Safe School Food
The Movement is
Gaining Momentum
States across America are taking action to protect children from harmful food chemicals. See the
progress being made and how you can support legislation in your state.
Victory in West Virginia!
First state to ban harmful food dyes in school meals
280,000
Students Protected
6
Banned Chemicals
100%
School Compliance
Current Legislative Action
West Virginia
March 2024
PASSED
Food Dye Ban Bill
Prohibits artificial food dyes in school meals statewide
Affects 280,000 students
California
In Committee
IN PROGRESS
School Food Safety Act
Requires disclosure of all artificial additives in school meals
6.2 million students
New York
February 2024
INTRODUCED
Clean Lunch Initiative
Phases out artificial preservatives over 3 years
2.7 million students
Illinois
Coming Soon
DRAFT
Chemical-Free Schools Bill
Comprehensive ban on harmful food additives
2 million students
Chemicals Being Targeted for Removal
Red Dye 40
Yellow Dye 5
Yellow Dye 6
Blue Dye 1
Blue Dye 2
Green Dye 3
BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone)
Potassium Bromate
Azodicarbonamide
Brominated Vegetable Oil
Propyl Paraben
Sodium Benzoate (in combination
with Vitamin C)
These chemicals are already banned or restricted in the European Union, but still allowed in American school meals.
Help Bring This Movement to Your State
Contact your representatives and demand action on school food safety legislation
Find Your Representatives
Download Action Kit
National Progress
Report Card
Track legislative progress on school food safety across all 50 states. See where your state stands and
what action is needed.
West Virginia
PASSED
Food Dye Ban Bill
Prohibits artificial food dyes in school meals statewide