In 2025, California is making significant steps to address the growing concerns over ultra-processed foods, taking a stance to improve public health nutrition.
Known for its forward-thinking policies on health and the environment, California is once again leading the way with new regulations aimed at reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to a range of chronic health issues such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
Ultra-processed foods are products that have undergone significant industrial processing, often involving artificial ingredients, preservatives, sweeteners and flavor enhancers. These foods, which include sugary snacks, ready-to-eat meals and sodas, have become staples in the American diet, contributing to both rising rates of chronic diseases and health care costs. Plus, evidence suggests that diets with large amounts of ultra-processed foods negatively impact mental health as well.
While California is cracking down on ultra-processed foods, it is not banning them outright. The main goal is to create a healthier food environment for residents while aiming to reduce healthcare costs over the long term. State officials have recognized the need to regulate and provide clearer labeling for foods that contribute to poor health outcomes.
One of the most notable actions introduced earlier this year orders the California Department of Public Health to provide recommendations to the governor’s office by April 1, 2025, to help limit the harms associated with ultra-processed foods. This may very well include warning labels on the packages of ultra-processed foods, aiming to empower consumers to make informed choices when grocery shopping.
California is also working to incentivize food manufacturers to shift towards healthier, more sustainable alternatives. The state is offering tax breaks and grants to companies that invest in producing minimally processed foods, with a focus on plant-based options and nutrient-rich products. By promoting healthier foods, California hopes to encourage businesses to rethink the way they approach food production, ultimately making healthier choices more accessible to consumers.
These recent steps to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods in California build upon state legislation passed in 2024 focused on food safety, food security and nutrition interventions including banning the sale of foods and beverages containing certain food dyes in public schools.
Plus, California is implementing educational programs across schools and communities to raise awareness about the importance of a balanced diet and the risks associated with ultra-processed foods. These initiatives aim to empower residents to make healthier food choices, whether cooking at home or dining out. By fostering a culture of nutrition education, California is working to prevent the long-term health consequences that come with a diet dominated by processed foods.
Ultimately, California’s 2025 crackdown on ultra-processed foods represents a significant step in the state’s ongoing efforts to improve public health and nutrition. While these actions may be seen by some as controversial, they do align with the public’s overall growing interest in transparency in food product information and “cleaner” food labels. California is creating an environment that encourages healthier eating habits while holding food manufacturers accountable for the products they create. As the nation watches California’s innovative approach unfold, it serves as a hopeful example of what can be achieved when policymakers prioritize the health and well-being of their citizens.
LeeAnn Weintraub, MPH, RD is a registered dietitian, providing nutrition counseling and consulting to individuals, families and organizations. She can be reached by email at RD@halfacup.com.