HB 1290 (SB 314) – Banning toxic additives in school meals

HB 1290 seeks to ban harmful food additives from free or reduced-price school meals in Texas, aligning with bans already in place in the European Union and under consideration at the federal level. By eliminating chemicals linked to cancer, reproductive harm, and DNA damage, this legislation prioritizes children’s health and prevents associated long-term healthcare costs. Additionally, it promotes market-driven solutions by encouraging food providers to adopt safer, cost-effective alternatives without imposing new bureaucratic regulations or state spending. However, there are concerns regarding the “substantially similar” clause, and TFR encourages lawmakers to clarify the definition of “substantially similar.