Illinois Lawmakers Move to Cut Ultra-Processed Foods from School Meals
House Bill 5507 establishes the Food Reform to Ensure Student Health Act, a comprehensive, multi-year effort to improve the quality of food served in Illinois schools. The measure passed out of committee on a 6–2 vote and now heads to the House floor for further consideration.
“Schools are more than just places to learn; they play a big role in shaping our kids’ daily lives,” said State Rep. Sonya Harper (D-Chicago), who sponsored the bipartisan bill. “For many students, the meal they get at school might be the only one they eat all day. That meal should not be high in fat, sodium, and added sugar, which can lead to obesity and other health issues.”
The legislation would require schools to begin phasing out ultra-processed foods by July 1, 2029, with full implementation by July 1, 2032. The rollout includes a structured timeline for rulemaking, reporting, and staff training to support a smooth transition.
“This bill creates a thoughtful path forward,” Harper said. “Diet-related illness and obesity are tied to food quality, and schools should be part of the solution, while ensuring implementation is practical.”
In addition to setting nutrition standards, the bill increases accountability for food suppliers by requiring transparency about ingredients and annual progress reporting.
Kelly McKenna, CEO of the bipartisan national nonprofit End Chronic Disease, called the bill a meaningful step forward.
“End Chronic Disease is honored to support this effort alongside leaders committed to protecting the health of our children,” McKenna said. “Chronic disease is the most urgent health crisis facing our country. If we do not address it, the long-term consequences are profound.”
More than 40 percent of American children now live with at least one chronic condition, including asthma, obesity, diabetes, or autoimmune disease. Nearly one in three children qualifies as clinically prediabetic, and ultra-processed foods make up a significant portion of daily calorie intake among young people.
“A win here would be a win for kids across America,” McKenna added. “Illinois schools serve millions of meals each year, making them the largest meal provider in the state. With one in eight people facing food insecurity, school meals are a lifeline for families.”
If passed, House Bill 5507 would position Illinois as a national leader in tackling diet-related disease at its root. Recent polling from End Chronic Disease shows strong public support for preventive measures like improving school nutrition, which are tied to better academic performance, improved long-term health outcomes, and reduced healthcare costs.
Tara Finestone
Atlas. Your Path Forward.
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