(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana education officials are surveying schools about the use of artificial food dyes in student meals.
The Indiana Department of Education has sent a voluntary survey to public K-12 schools asking about the presence of artificial dyes and additives, following a directive from Governor Mike Braun.
The move comes after an executive order last year directing state agencies to assess ultra-processed foods and potential health impacts.
According to the Indiana Capital Chronicle, the survey asks schools to identify which dyes are being used, including Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6, and Blue 1 and 2.
Officials are also asking schools to estimate how much of the food served--especially through free and reduced meal programs--contains those additives, and whether suppliers are working to limit them.
The survey is part of a broader push from state leaders to evaluate food quality in schools and encourage healthier options.
Lawmakers have also debated limiting ultra-processed foods in school meals, though no legislation has passed so far.
For a full breakdown of the survey and the state's broader efforts, see the Indiana Capital Chronicle report.