New York considering ban on food additives
New York is considering a bill that would ban five food additives linked to cancer, chronic disease and mood disorders.
The ingredients are currently used in Skittles, Pez candies and Sun Drop soda.
What are the food additives?
The five food additives are:
- Red Dye No. 3
- Potassium bromate
- Propylparaben
- Brominated vegetable oil
- Titanium dioxide
What are the health concerns?
Red Dye No. 3 and potassium bromate have been linked to cancers, while propylparaben is thought to cause fertility issues.
Brominated vegetable oil has been linked to nerve damage, and titanium dioxide has been linked to lung cancer.
How will the bill work?
If the bill is passed, it would give manufacturers five years to alter their recipes or face fines for selling in the state.
What are the next steps?
The bill must clear five hurdles before it can become law in New York State. First, it must be supported by a majority of members in the agriculture committees in both houses.
It must then receive a majority vote on the floors of both the assembley and the senate. And then be signed off by Governor Kathy Hochul.
What is the significance of this bill?
The bill is significant because it would make New York the second state to ban these food additives. The bill is also significant because it is part of a growing movement to ban harmful food additives.
What is the food industry’s response?
Industry stakeholders have hit back at the bill, saying it is unnecessary and will harm businesses. However, supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect public health.
Conclusion
The bill is currently being considered by the New York State legislature. It is unclear whether the bill will pass, but it is a sign of the growing movement to ban harmful food additives.