New Arizona law bans certain food dyes, ingredients in local schools

A new Arizona law limits 11 ingredients in food served at public and charter schools that participate in federally funded meal programs. The Arizona Healthy Schools Act includes seven food dyes: Yellow 5 and 6, Blue 1 and 2, Green 3, and Red 3 and 40.

The law also prohibits potassium bromate, propylparaben, titanium dioxide and brominated vegetable oil. These ingredients can be found in items such as brightly colored candy, sports drinks, gelatin desserts, snack crackers, frosting and some cereals.

Families can still send students lunches and snacks of their choice. However, food brought to share during classroom celebrations will be checked to make sure it follows the new requirements. Schools could face penalties for allowing prohibited ingredients.

The Sierra Vista Unified School District is offering celebration packs through its food vendor to help families follow the rules.