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TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Arizona public schools are now required to follow the , which bans 11 ingredients — including seven food dyes — from being served, sold, or distributed on campus during the regular school day.
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The law, which took effect with the 2026-27 school year, applies to all schools participating in federally funded meal programs. It defines the regular school day as midnight through 30 minutes after school lets out.
The ban applies to food and beverages provided on campus – including those from outside vendors, school stores, vending machines, snack bars, and parents sharing food with an entire class. Classroom parties, celebrations, and fundraisers held during the school day are also subject to the restrictions.
The 11 prohibited ingredients are:
- potassium bromate
- propylparaben
- titanium dioxide
- brominated vegetable oil
- Yellow Dye 5 or 6
- Blue Dye 1 or 2
- Green Dye 3
- Red Dye 3 or 40
Parents may still pack any lunch or snack of their choosing for their own child and may drop food off directly for their own child, but not to share with classmates.
Tucson Unified School District Food Services Director Lindsay Aguilar said the district’s meal program was already in line with the law before it took effect. She said the bigger adjustment will come during celebrations. Items like brightly frosted cupcakes and certain popular snacks will no longer be permitted for shared use on campus.
“Instead of cupcakes that have green or red or blue frosting on it, there’s cookies that can be purchased through TUSD catering that meet the requirements that don’t have the food dyes that meet the sugar and fat requirements,” Aguilar said.
TUSD’s food services website lists compliant snacks and treats that can be purchased at stores or ordered through the district. District officials said the changes will not affect meal costs, and free meals will continue to be available.
Aguilar said the district views the law as an opportunity for nutrition education for students and families.
Schools across Arizona are required to certify their compliance with the Arizona Department of Education.
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