Public K-12 schools, ultra-processed foods, prohibited and defined

HB 580, the Alabama Healthy Schools Act, prohibits public K-12 schools participating in federal meal programs from serving, selling, or allowing third parties to sell "ultra-processed food" on campus during school hours starting in the 2026-2027 school year. It directly affects schools participating in federal meal programs by restricting foods containing specific additives like certain artificial dyes (e.g., Yellow Dye 5, Red Dye 40), brominated vegetable oil, and titanium dioxide. Schools must certify compliance using a state-provided form, and the State Department of Education will publish a list of compliant schools online. The bill explicitly excludes food provided by parents or guardians to students during school hours.