Public hearing held on bill to ban certain red dyes in K–12 school foods; vote set for next week

House Bill 491, filed by Representative Ingram, received a public hearing April 23 on a proposal to prohibit specified red food dyes and related additives in foods provided in public K–12 schools.

Why it matters: The bill targets ingredients used in school-provided meals and vending options; supporters argued the change would protect children’s behavior and health, while industry witnesses warned a state-level ban would create regulatory confusion and impose procurement costs.

Sponsor and supporters Representative Ingram said constituents — including family members who visit her restaurant — urged action and said multiple states have pursued similar measures. She described the bill as directed "for our kids" and said the Alabama Board of Education supports the policy but had asked for a later start date because many food contracts are already in place.

Industry and procurement concerns Virginia Bannister of the Alabama Beverage…