A new Louisiana law prohibits artificial dyes and preservatives in school meals starting in 2027, mandates QR code labels for certain ingredients.
BATON ROUGE, La. — Changes are coming to schools and restaurants after Louisiana lawmakers passed a set of nutrition reforms.
The bill aligns with the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. Louisiana joins several other states, including West Virginia, Utah, Texas, Idaho and Michigan, that have recently passed similar laws.
Here’s a look at the four main changes
Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, schools will no longer be able to serve foods with certain artificial colors and preservatives.
Banned ingredients include food dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, commonly found in candy and brightly colored beverages, as well as preservatives like BHA and BHT used in cereals and snack foods. Schools will also be required to source at least 20% of their food from Louisiana farms. The ban does not apply to after-school snacks or concession stand items.
Restaurants and Businesses
Businesses must add a QR code on their packaging if products contain certain artificial ingredients. The code will link to information about why those substances could be harmful.
If a business uses seed oils like vegetable oils, it will be required to include a disclaimer for customers.
Physicians and other medical professionals will have to take one hour of nutrition training every two years.
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