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Sponsor frames SB 577 as a public‑health step to remove certain food dyes from school meals
Summary
SB 577, the "Protect Our Kids Food Act," would ban certain color additives in public‑school meals; sponsor cited potential behavioral and health risks and aligned New Hampshire with other states and international restrictions.
Sen. Suprentice introduced SB 577, the "Protect Our Kids Food Act," asking the committee to consider banning certain color additives from school meals, arguing the dyes add no nutritional value and may pose physical and behavioral risks to children. The sponsor listed states and jurisdictions that have taken similar steps and said many of the dyes are prohibited in the European Union.
Committee members asked about scope—for example whether decorative food‑coloring used in pastries would be included—and the sponsor deferred detailed composition questions to subject‑matter experts. One member observed the measure could be an initial step and that future bills might address preservatives or other additives.
A brief public commenter, Chesley Marvin, offered a nonexpert opinion that food dyes are a current health topic and suggested natural alternatives (beet juice), while the committee closed the hearing with no further witnesses.
What's next: The committee will consider definitions and scope (which additives are covered) and may solicit expert testimony about health risk evidence and implementation costs or substitution availability for school food-service providers.
