Sponsor
Michael Lawler
Representative · R-NY
Representative · R-NY
The bill reduces exposure to certain synthetic color additives and clarifies procurement law for federal purchases—benefiting consumers and some food suppliers—at the likely cost of higher procurement expenses, potential supply and menu constraints, and implementation burdens for agencies and vendors.
Millions who eat federally provided meals (including federal employees and children/youth in agency programs) will have reduced exposure to certain synthetic color additives because agencies will procure foods without them.
Federal agencies and contracting officers get clearer legal definitions and procurement guidance through amendments to the FD&C Act and procurement law, reducing ambiguity in agency purchasing decisions.
Producers and suppliers of additive-free or uncolored foods, including small food businesses, are likely to see increased demand from federal procurement, creating market opportunities.
Taxpayers may face higher costs because agencies could pay more for additive-free food alternatives than for conventional products.
Agency dining services and meal programs (including hospital and other institutional providers) could encounter supply constraints or reduced menu options if additive-free items are less available, complicating logistics and meal planning.
Agencies and government contractors will incur implementation and compliance burdens during the (six-month) rollout to meet the amended FD&C Act and procurement requirements, adding administrative costs and transition work.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Stops executive agencies from contracting for foods that contain specified synthetic color additives and directs preference for dye-free foods when available.
Official title: To prohibit the Federal procurement of food that contain certain color additives and prioritize the procurement of products not containing any color additives.
Introduced December 11, 2025 by Michael Lawler · Last progress December 11, 2025
Prohibits executive agencies from entering into or renewing contracts to buy food that contains specified synthetic color additives (Red No. 40; Yellow No. 5; Yellow No. 6; Green No. 3; Blue No. 1; Blue No. 2; Citrus Red No. 2; Orange B). Agencies must prioritize purchasing food without any color additives when such products are available and practicable. The rule applies to contracts entered on or after six months following enactment.