Grand Canyon Times

State schools chief Tom Horne has expressed support for a bill aimed at eliminating harmful foods from school campuses, citing health risks associated with certain ingredients. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Leo Biasiucci, proposes to prohibit public schools from serving or selling food containing ingredients such as potassium bromate and synthetic dyes.

Horne stated, “The time has come to eliminate harmful foods from public schools and vending machines. Synthetic food dyes are associated with behavioral issues which then affect a child's ability to perform academically and engage socially.”

He further emphasized the disparity in ingredient approval between the U.S. and Europe, advocating for minimally processed foods in schools: “There are approximately 10,000 ingredients approved for use in the U.S. versus about 400 in Europe, and these issues need to be addressed.”

Rep. Biasiucci stressed the importance of nutritious meals for students: “Our kids deserve better than artificial dyes and cheap fillers in their lunches.” He believes the bill prioritizes children's health.

Sen. Janae Shamp also supports the initiative: “What we feed our kids matters. Schools shouldn’t be serving ultra-processed, chemically engineered junk food.”

Chris Chavez of Turning Point USA highlighted community health concerns linked to current school meals: “Arizona’s students are being fed harmful, chemical-laden foods, fueling obesity and diabetes.”

Actor Rob Schneider added his voice to the cause: “We can no longer allow school lunches to be junk foods filled with toxic chemicals... Our kids deserve better!”

Diana Diaz-Harrison shared personal insights on diet impacts: “By removing ultra-processed foods from my son’s diet, we’ve minimized his seizures, improved his health...”

U.S. military veteran Brian Sikma noted national security implications: “Health and fitness are matters of national security... Better, healthier food choices will enable our next generation to pursue their dreams.”