0:00
Snack labels could be getting a major makeover in Texas and that change might spread nationwide
0:08
A bill on Governor Greg Abbott's desk would require warning labels on foods with ingredients banned or restricted overseas
0:16
Think Doritos, M&Ms, Mountain Dew, anything using dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, or chemicals like titanium dioxide
0:24
The label, it would say the product contains a substance not recommended for human consumption by regulators in Europe, the UK, Canada or Australia
0:34
The bill passed both chambers with bipartisan support. If Abbott signs it, the new labels would show up starting in 2027
0:42
They'd only apply to packaging developed after that date and wouldn't touch products already regulated by federal agencies
0:49
Supporters say it's about transparency. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. backs the measure as part of his Make America Healthy Again plan
0:58
He's also directing the FDA to phase out petroleum-based food dyes by the end of next year
1:03
Industry giants are pushing back. Companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and Walmart say the law creates confusion and legal risks
1:12
They want Abbott to veto it. But here's why it matters beyond Texas
1:16
Companies may change labels nationwide to avoid state-by-state production lines. It's happened before with GMOs in Vermont and chemical warnings in California
1:26
West Virginia passed a similar law in March, banning several synthetic dyes and preservatives
1:31
That law kicks in by 2028. Abbott hasn't said what he'll do
1:35
His office says he's reviewing the bill carefully and wants to make sure Texans have access to healthy food without unnecessary red tape
1:44
For more of our unbiased straight fact reporting, download the Straight Hour News app today or log on to san.com
