Arizona public schools will soon be prohibited from serving ultraprocessed foods during school meals, following the unanimous approval of House Bill 2164 by both chambers of the state legislature.
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, any Arizona school participating in a federally funded or assisted meal program will be barred from serving, selling, or allowing third parties to sell ultraprocessed food on campus during regular school hours. The bill makes an exception for food provided directly by a student’s parent or guardian.
The legislation defines ultraprocessed food as any product containing a specific list of synthetic additives, including potassium bromate, titanium dioxide, brominated vegetable oil, and several artificial dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1.
The bill also requires the Arizona Department of Education to publish a standardized compliance certification form on its website, along with a public list of schools that have confirmed they are following the new requirements.
In legislative findings included with the bill, lawmakers cited concerns about childhood obesity and undernourishment caused by the presence of ultraprocessed, nutrient-depleted foods in taxpayer-funded school meals. They argue the food provided to students should consist primarily of whole, minimally processed plant or animal products.
Officially titled the “Arizona Healthy Schools Act,” HB 2164 passed both the House and Senate without a single opposing vote. The legislation is now expected to be signed into law and will take full effect in time for the 2026 school year.
