West Virginia bill prohibiting food dyes, preservatives signed into law

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — A West Virginia bill banning some preservatives and food dyes has been signed into law.

House Bill 2354 received overwhelming support in both legislative chambers and was signed by Gov. Patrick Morrissey Monday.

The measure will prohibit two preservatives and seven food dyes from school nutrition programs beginning Aug. 1.

In 2028, the ban goes statewide.

After some debate, lawmakers ultimately decided to extend the statewide deadline to allow companies and grocers time to comply.

The ban includes preservatives butylated hydroxyanisole and propylparaben along with Red Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2 and Green Dye No. 3.

Synthetic food dyes have been linked to neurobehavioral issues in children.

At least a dozen other states are also considering a ban on food dyes.