Governor Newsom signs assembly bill, 418 which bans four major ingredients that are found in most candies around the US
California’s Assembly Bill 418, also known as the California Food Safety Act, prohibits four potentially harmful chemicals in food products within California.
This bill, introduced by Assembly members Jesse Gabriel and Buffy Wicks in February 2023, is aimed at eliminating these potentially harmful chemicals, many of which are commonly found in American candies across the United States. The four banned chemicals are as follows:
• Red dye 3 (CAS no. 16423-68-0), a synthetic colorant linked to thyroid tumors in rats.
• Potassium bromate (CAS no. 7758-01-2), a flour improver that can cause cancer in animals and humans.
• Brominated vegetable oil (CAS no. 8016-94-2), a stabilizer for citrus-flavored drinks that can accumulate in the body and affect the nervous system.
• Propylparaben (CAS no. 94-13-3), a preservative that can disrupt hormone function and fertility.
These ingredients are commonly found in popular candies like Skittles, Starburst, M&M’s, and many more.
However, there is no need to worry, as your favorite candies will still be available in stores across California. Most major candy companies, including Skittles and Hershey, are working on reformulating their recipes to eliminate these banned ingredients from their candies.
Please note that modifying these ingredients may impact the flavor, texture, and shelf life of some candies. For instance, red dye No. 3 provides a bright red or pink color to candies, and potassium bromate enhances the texture and volume of baked goods.
The removal or substitution of these ingredients may affect the appearance and taste of some candies. Additionally, propylparaben is used to prevent mold and bacteria growth in foods, and brominated vegetable oil stabilizes citrus-flavored drinks. Changing or substituting these ingredients may influence the freshness and quality of some candies.
As a result, some consumers may notice a difference in their favorite candies after the new law takes effect in 2027.
This presents a significant challenge for major candy companies, as they will need to remove these chemicals and ensure that the flavors remain consistent, maintaining the original taste before 2027, not only for California but possibly for other U.S. states if similar laws are enacted.