Byron Donalds pushes ban on ultra‑processed foods in Florida schools

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, is urging the removal of ultra‑processed foods, artificial dyes and other harmful additives from Florida school meals. He argues that parents should know exactly what is served to their children and that Florida can act without waiting for federal action.

Donald’s proposal echoes a 2025 bill (SB 1826) that sought to define “ultra‑processed food” and prohibit its sale in schools but stalled amid food‑industry lobbying and concerns over supplier logistics and costs. State Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson has said he will address the issue in the upcoming 2026 legislative session. Federal school‑lunch rules currently limit added sugars, sodium and carbohydrates but do not cap ultra‑processed food consumption, which studies link to excessive intake of sugar, processed fats and sodium among children.