Michigan Senate Bill SB0228

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/17/25
• Refer: 4/17/25

Caption

Education: meals; certain substances served in school foods; prohibit. Amends 2000 PA 92 (MCL 289.1101 - 289.8111) by adding sec. 7134.

Impact

The passage of SB 228 will significantly amend the existing Food Law in Michigan, which governs the regulation of food safety and nutrition. By adding Section 7134, the bill specifically targets common ingredients identified as potentially harmful to children’s health, bringing statewide food policies in line with current scientific research on food safety. Schools will need to review their menus and food suppliers to ensure compliance with the new regulations, which could lead to a shift in food purchasing practices and menu planning for school districts.

Summary

Senate Bill 228 aims to enhance food safety standards in Michigan schools by prohibiting the sale or availability of certain harmful substances in student food offerings. Effective July 1, 2026, schools will be restricted from providing foods that contain brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, titanium dioxide, and several synthetic dyes including Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Yellow 6. This legislative initiative reflects an increasing concern over the impact of artificial additives and potential health risks associated with these substances, especially for children who consume them regularly at school meals.

Contention

While many health advocates and parents support SB 228 for its potential to protect children's health, there may be concerns regarding the logistical challenges schools face in adapting to these new standards. Some stakeholders might argue about the costs associated with reformulating menus or sourcing alternative products that meet these new regulations. Further, there could be varying opinions on which substances should be included in this ban, leading to potential debates in future discussions surrounding food policies in schools.