GA HB642

Prohibits Georgia public primary and secondary schools from serving, selling, or allowing third parties to sell food or beverages containing synthetic dyes on school grounds during the regular school day or as part of school breakfast programs, effective 2026-2027 school year

Defines "synthetic dye" as seven specific FDA-certified color additives: Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6

Exempts food or beverages brought by parents/guardians for their own child or for school and classroom events from the prohibition

Requires the Department of Education to develop a standardized compliance certification form for schools and maintain a publicly available list of certified compliant schools on its website

Legislative findings cite research linking synthetic food dyes to hyperactivity, inattention, restlessness, and other behavioral challenges that can impact children's learning and focus