Staff Reports
In a surprising turn of events, a radical proposed law in Illinois is threatening to take the joy out of grocery shopping for hardworking Americans by pushing for a ban on certain food additives. The Illinois Food Safety Act has sparked controversy by targeting additives such as red dye #3 and titanium dioxide, despite the fact that these additives have been safely used for years. State Sen. Willie Preston, D-Chicago, is leading the charge, but this proposal is stirring up some serious opposition.
The Institute of Food Technologists is taking a stand against this overreaching legislation, and for good reason. Bryan Hitchcock, the organization’s chief science and technology officer, has sounded the alarm on the potential financial burden this law would place on food companies. From researching alternative ingredients to revamping product labels, the costs are sure to add up quickly. Let’s face it, folks – who’s going to foot the bill for all this unnecessary red tape? You guessed it, the hardworking consumers.
Illinois-based food-science organization weighs in on proposed food additives bill #news https://t.co/jh0WTgsgBE via @thecentersquare
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California has already jumped on the bandwagon with a similar law, set to take effect in 2027. But the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association isn’t mincing words when it comes to their opposition to this proposed measure. They argue that it would not only create chaos for food manufacturers, but also set a dangerous precedent. And they’re absolutely right. We can’t have every state out there playing mad scientist with our food supply.
Bryan Hitchcock has made it clear that this legislation could force businesses to reconsider their relationship with the Land of Lincoln. Some companies might think twice about distributing products in Illinois, while others could even pack their bags and leave altogether. It’s like they say – “You don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone.” Illinois lawmakers should think long and hard before they start driving businesses out of the state over unnecessary regulations. Let’s keep the Land of Lincoln open for business!
