State Sen. Thompson files bill banning certain food dyes, additives

"What exactly are we eating?" That's a question a lot of folks have been asking in the past few years, in particular, and it's starting to reach the halls of elected office. While this isn't my area of expertise -- I am vaguely aware of debates over "seed oils", food colors and preservatives, et cetera (ironically reminiscent of the late-1800s origins of the FDA; PBS aired a fascinating documentary on this) -- State Senator Kristen Thompson thinks it's time to look into it:

Senator Kristen Thompson Introduces Legislation to Improve Health Outcomes in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 25th) — Senator Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, has introduced legislation to better improve health outcomes in Oklahoma.

The initiative comes as incoming President Donald Trump’s administration aims to prioritize public health. Senator Thompson’s bill specifically examines the use of certain harmful food additives that are prohibited in other countries.

Sen. Thompson’s Senate Bill 4 was born out of the growing concern over dangerous chemicals and additives in food that have been linked to serious health issues, including developmental and behavioral challenges in children.

“For too long Oklahoma has ranked near the bottom in overall health outcomes,” Sen. Thompson said. “I believe this legislation will begin to reverse this negative trend, leading to a healthier state. As a mom of three, I have experienced firsthand the adverse effects of chemicals and preservatives in our foods. This legislation is about putting the health and safety of Oklahoma’s children and families first. Our children deserve a healthy start in life, free from exposure to harmful chemicals during critical stages of their development. I hope this legislation acts to shine a light on the harmful chemicals in food and will give us the ability to further this conversation and put Oklahoma on a better trajectory for health outcomes.”

Other countries have taken decisive action to ban or severely restrict harmful chemicals due to the risks they pose, especially to children. Research has shown that exposure to these chemicals can impact cognitive and physical development, making this legislation critical to Oklahoma’s future.

Oklahoma consistently ranks near the bottom in health statistics. A recent study put Oklahoma as the eighth unhealthiest state in the nation.

Senator Kristen Thompson represents District 22, which includes Edmond, Oklahoma, in the Oklahoma Senate.