CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey has signed House Bill 2354 into law, banning certain food dyes from school lunches and food items sold in West Virginia.
The law, aimed at improving public health, will take effect in phases over the coming years.
“West Virginia ranks at the bottom of many public health metrics, which is why there’s no better place to lead the Make America Healthy Again mission,” Governor Morrisey said.
“By eliminating harmful chemicals from our food, we’re taking steps toward improving the health of our residents and protecting our children from significant long-term health and learning challenges. Thank you to the Legislature, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the entire Trump Administration for helping us launch this movement right here in West Virginia.”
Starting August 1, 2025, the law prohibits the use of the following dyes in school meals:
- Red Dye No. 3
- Red Dye No. 40
- Yellow Dye No. 5
- Yellow Dye No. 6
- Blue Dye No. 1
- Blue Dye No. 2
- Green Dye No. 3
By January 1, 2028, these same dyes, along with preservatives butylated hydroxyanisole and propylparaben, will also be banned from food and drug products sold in the state.
The delayed deadline allows companies time to adjust while minimizing consumer price increases.
“Today’s announcement represents a step toward a productive dialogue about how West Virginia and our country can eat healthier and address some of the vexing health care problems facing our citizens,” Governor Morrisey said.
“Through the implementation process, I look forward to advancing policies which improve our health care outcomes, maintain our jobs, and respect the FDA’s and supply channel’s role in the process.”
