In a move that has shocked many, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that bans certain additives and chemicals found in candy, soda, and even bread. This is the first of its kind bill in the United States, and it has sparked controversy and mockery on social media.
The California Food Safety Act, as it is now called, prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution of any items in the state that contain red dye No. 3, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, and propylparaben. These ingredients are commonly found in popular candies such as Skittles and Hot Tamales, and even in beloved Easter treats, Peeps.
Crime is through the roof, worst drug epidemic ever & homelessness at an all time high in CA… Let’s focus on Skittles pic.twitter.com/ohWQcUcQjf
— Mario Lopez (@mariolopezviva) October 10, 2023
Governor Newsom argues that red dye No. 3 is a known carcinogen and that bans on it have been in place in other countries for years. He also claims that some of these ingredients contribute to hyperactivity in children, which is why they have been included in the bill. However, this argument has been met with skepticism and backlash, with many people accusing Newsom of being a part of the “nanny state” and overstepping his boundaries as a politician.
Initially, the bill was referred to as the “Skittles Bill” because it included a ban on the popular candy. The Skittles lobby, however, proved to be too strong, and the item was eventually stripped from the bill during committee.
This recent ban adds to a growing list of controversial decisions made by Newsom and his administration, including the push for gas-powered vehicles to be phased out in the state. Many critics argue that these decisions are another example of the state’s obsession with control and power, and will only result in more taxes and crime.
The ban on certain ingredients in candy and soda has also raised questions about what could be next on the chopping block. Will the government start regulating other foods and drinks that contain “unhealthy” ingredients? And if so, where will it end?
One thing is for sure, the banning of certain candies and ingredients is causing a stir in California and beyond. Many people are calling for Newsom and other leaders to focus on more pressing issues rather than wasting time and resources on small things like candy. Others argue that it is important to take the health effects of these additives and chemicals seriously and that this ban is a step in the right direction towards a safer and healthier society.
Only time will tell how this new Act will be enforced and what other items will be targeted next. Until then, one thing is clear – the debate over the ban on candy and soda in California is far from over.
