Utah Lawmaker Pushes to Expand School Lunch Additive Bans

State Rep. Kristen Chevrier aims to prohibit titanium dioxide in public school meals by 2026-27 school year.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new proposal in Utah could expand the list of chemicals banned from public school lunches. State Representative Kristen Chevrier is pushing to add titanium dioxide to restrictions created under a law passed last year that targeted certain food additives. Large school districts must comply with the bans by the 2026-27 school year, with smaller districts expected to follow the next year.

Why it matters

The proposed expansion of the additive ban aims to make school lunches healthier for students by eliminating potentially harmful chemicals. Titanium dioxide is a common food coloring and additive that some studies have linked to health concerns, especially for children.

The details

Under the new proposal, titanium dioxide would be added to the list of banned additives in public school lunches across Utah. Large school districts must comply with the full set of restrictions by the 2026-27 school year, while smaller districts would have an additional year to make the changes.

  • The law targeting certain food additives in school lunches was passed in 2025.
  • Large school districts must comply with the bans by the 2026-27 school year.
  • Smaller school districts are expected to follow the next year, by the 2027-28 school year.

The players

Kristen Chevrier

A state representative in Utah who is proposing to expand the list of banned additives in public school lunches.

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What’s next

The proposal to add titanium dioxide to the banned additives list will need to go through the Utah state legislature for consideration and approval.

The takeaway

This effort to further restrict potentially harmful chemicals in school lunches reflects growing concerns about food additives and a push for healthier options for students across Utah.