Texas Governor Greg Abbott has recently signed a new law that will impact the labeling of thousands of packaged food products. The law requires these products to display warning labels indicating that they contain ingredients that are “not recommended for human consumption” in other countries. This legislation covers over 40 different ingredients, including food dyes and additives commonly used in food processing for various purposes such as enhancing taste, texture, or shelf life. It is important to note that this law will only apply to food product labels that were developed or copyrighted on or after January 1, 2027.
While this new law in Texas is a significant step towards promoting healthier food choices, it may face challenges if federal action is taken. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could potentially introduce its own labeling requirements, which could override certain aspects of the state law. Additionally, ingredients may be exempt from the law if the FDA deems them safe for consumption.
The introduction of this law in Texas is part of a broader movement towards promoting healthier food options in the United States. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been a vocal advocate for removing artificial dyes and additives from food products. He has urged the food industry to voluntarily eliminate these ingredients from their products by the end of 2026. Several major companies, including Kraft Heinz and PepsiCo, have already signaled their intention to comply with these recommendations.
However, the food industry has raised concerns about the new labeling requirements in Texas. They argue that the ingredients targeted by the law have undergone extensive safety testing and that the warning labels may be unnecessary. In some cases, the law may apply to additives that are permitted in other countries and are derived from natural sources, leading to potential confusion among consumers.
For example, the law would require warning labels on products containing ficin, a natural extract used in cheesemaking and meat production, as well as sodium hydroxide, an essential ingredient in pretzel production. Industry experts warn that these labeling requirements could mislead consumers and provide inaccurate information, ultimately undermining the goal of promoting transparency in the food industry.
Overall, while the new law in Texas aims to improve food transparency and promote healthier choices, there are concerns about its potential impact on consumer understanding and industry practices. It remains to be seen how this legislation will be implemented and whether it will lead to significant changes in the food labeling landscape.