Bill on non-UPF certification passes in California

SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — The California legislature has passed Assembly Bill 2244 that would establish a non-ultra-processed certified seal that food manufacturers could place on their products that meet standards for not being ultra-processed.

“While Washington, DC, is paralyzed by inaction, Republicans and Democrats in California are joining forces to empower consumers to avoid harmful ultra-processed foods,” said Jesse Gabriel, the assembly member who authored the bill. “Like the USDA Organic label, this new seal will provide consumers with clear, trustworthy information and make it easier for them to locate healthier foods that are free from harmful additives. Parents shouldn’t need a PhD in chemistry to understand what they’re feeding their kids.”

The bill passed by a vote of 32-0 in the state Senate and by a vote of 72-0 in the state Assembly. California Governor Gavin Newsom has until Sept.30 to decide whether to veto the bill or sign it into law.

No federal law defines ultra-processed food, but the US Department of Health and the US Department of Agriculture have submitted for final review a proposed definition.

The bill in California would establish a process overseen by the California Department of Health where food manufacturers could apply to accredited certification agents to use the non-ultra-processed certified label on their packaging.

A state law in California regarding certain school-related purposes defines ultra-processed food as any food or beverage that contains a specific substance and either high amounts of saturated fat, sodium, or added sugar or a non-nutritive sweetener or other substance. The law requires the California Department of Health to define ultra-processed foods of concern and restricted school foods by June 1, 2028.