Despite popular belief, California is not banning Skittles. A new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2023 prohibits the manufacture, sale, and distribution of four food additives: brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, and Red Dye 3. Titanium dioxide, an ingredient in Skittles, was originally included in the bill, but was removed before it was passed.
The law, which takes effect in January 2027, is intended to protect consumers from the potential health risks of these additives. Brominated vegetable oil has been linked to cancer, potassium bromate is a known carcinogen, and propylparaben is a suspected endocrine disruptor. Red Dye 3 has been shown to cause hyperactivity and behavioral problems in children.
While Skittles are exempt from the California ban, the company has announced that it will remove titanium dioxide from its candy by the end of 2023. This move is likely due to the growing public concern over the safety of titanium dioxide, as well as the fact that the European Union banned its use in food products in 2021.
Some people have criticized the California law as being unnecessary and burdensome to businesses. However, supporters of the law argue that it is important to protect consumers from the potential health risks of food additives, especially when there are safe alternatives available.
Here are some of the most common questions about the California Skittles ban:
Q: Is California banning Skittles?
A: No, California is not banning Skittles. The new law bans four food additives, but titanium dioxide, the ingredient in Skittles that was originally included in the bill, was removed before it was passed.
Q: Why is California banning these food additives?
A: The law is intended to protect consumers from the potential health risks of these additives. Brominated vegetable oil has been linked to cancer, potassium bromate is a known carcinogen, and propylparaben is a suspected endocrine disruptor. Red Dye 3 has been shown to cause hyperactivity and behavioral problems in children.
Q: When does the law go into effect?
A: The law takes effect in January 2027.
Q: Will Skittles still be available in California after the law goes into effect?
A: Yes, Skittles will still be available in California after the law goes into effect. The company has announced that it will remove titanium dioxide from its candy by the end of 2023.
Q: What should I do if I am concerned about the food additives in my food?
A: If you are concerned about the food additives in your food, you can read the ingredient labels on food products and choose products that do not contain the additives that you are concerned about. You can also contact the manufacturers of your favorite food products to ask them about their use of food additives.
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