SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Friday to address the rising health risks posed by ultra-processed foods and synthetic food dyes.

Building on California’s national leadership in promoting healthy eating standards, the governor’s executive action directs state agencies to assess and recommend measures to reduce the consumption of harmful food ingredients and to expand access to healthier, affordable food options for those in the Golden State.

“The food we eat shouldn’t make us sick with disease or lead to lifelong consequences. California has been a leader for years in creating healthy and delicious school meals, and removing harmful ingredients and chemicals from food,” Newsom stated. “We’re going to work with the industry, consumers and experts to crack down on ultra-processed foods, and create a healthier future for every Californian.”

Key provisions of the executive order

The executive order, according to the Governor’s Office, calls for several state-level actions designed to promote healthier living, which include the following:

1. Recommendations on ultra-processed foods and harmful Ingredients: The order directs state entities to provide advice on actions to limit the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods and food ingredients known to pose risks, including synthetic dyes.
2. Ongoing investigation into food dyes: The California Department of Public Health will continue its research into the adverse health impacts of synthetic food dyes, which the Natural Institute of Health reports have been linked to behavioral and developmental issues in children.
3. Incentives for healthy eating: The order aims to reduce the purchase of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods such as soda and candy by recipients of the CalFresh Program, while encouraging the purchase of fresh, nutritious food.
4. Supporting local health initiatives: It explores using Medi-Cal Managed Care plans and Hospital Community Benefit funds to increase access to healthy foods in underserved areas and combat “food deserts” across the state.
5. Improving school nutrition standards: The order seeks to identify areas where California can exceed national standards for school meals, ensuring students have access to healthier, more nutritious options.
6. Expanding universal school food programs: The order also explores new partnerships and standards aimed at expanding access to school meal programs for all students, furthering efforts to eliminate food insecurity.

A commitment to public health

California has long been at the forefront of efforts to improve public health through better nutrition. The executive order is a continuation of the state’s commitment to combat chronic diseases linked to poor diet, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. This initiative also aligns with findings from the latest 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Report, which highlights troubling trends: 73% of U.S. adults 20 years of age and older are overweight or obese, and nearly 40% of teenagers are prediabetic.

“Through today’s executive order, we’re making a decisive and transformative commitment to further California’s work to prioritize health and nutrition as fundamental building blocks for thriving communities,” stated First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “By connecting the dots between whole food, mental wellness, and strong cognition, we are creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to realize their full potential. This is a powerful move towards health, equity and a California for all kids.”

Addressing the growing health crisis

The governor’s new efforts come at a time when the country faces a public health crisis. According to the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy eating can significantly lower the risks of chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, yet many Americans still face barriers to accessing nutritious food.

Newsom’s executive order is meant to demonstrate a vision for a healthier California, prioritizing policies that not only fight obesity and prevent chronic diseases but also ensure all communities, especially the most vulnerable, have access to the resources needed to thrive.

For more information, you can read the full executive order here.