• Short Description:  Minnesota families are calling on lawmakers and school leaders to eliminate artificial food dyes from all food and beverages served in public schools. Let’s prioritize our children’s health with safer, dye-free meals!

We, the undersigned parents, guardians, educators, and concerned citizens of Minnesota, urge our state legislators and the Minnesota Department of Education to adopt legislation requiring that all food and beverages served in public schools be free from artificial dyes and synthetic food colorings.

Why This Matters:
Artificial dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 are found in many processed foods and have been linked to behavioral issues such as inattentiveness, aggression, ADHD, allergic reactions, and other health concerns in children.

Several other countries have already banned or restricted these additives, prioritizing children's health over corporate convenience. Minnesota must do the same. Other U.S. states have enacted dye-free school meal laws, including California, Virginia, and West Virginia. Many additional states—such as Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington—have pending or proposed legislation to ban artificial food dyes in schools.

Children should be able to focus, learn, and thrive without being exposed to unnecessary chemicals during school meals and activities. By removing artificial dyes from school food, we can help improve student behavior, reduce health risks, and support families striving for healthier lifestyles.

What We Are Asking For:

Legislation that mandates Minnesota public schools serve only dye-free meals and snacks
Increased transparency in school food ingredient labeling
Education and outreach to schools and families on the risks of synthetic dyes and the benefits of clean, whole-food alternatives
Join Us:
If you believe Minnesota schools should protect children’s health by eliminating artificial food dyes, please sign and share this petition. Let’s work together to make school food safer and healthier for all Minnesota kids.

Target Decision Makers:
Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota State Legislature