Legislation introduced on Friday by State Representative Lee Reeves (R-Franklin) would create the Tennessee K-12 Nutrition Task Force, which would examine the amount and impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), as well as those with artificial dyes and chemical additives, currently offered to children in the state’s public schools.
House Bill (HB) 2076 by Reeves and Senate Bill (SB) 2122 by State Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma) would create the nine-member task force. Eight of the members would be appointed by various committees in the Tennessee General Assembly, while one would be appointed by the Tennessee Commissioner of Education, and all must have no conflicts of interest involving food, beverage, or pharmaceutical companies.
Once established, the task force would be charged with determining the percentage of food offered to Tennessee students that includes UPFs, artificial dyes, and chemical additives, during breakfasts and lunches.
It would also review available data, “regarding the link between UPF consumption in schools and the rising rates of childhood obesity and metabolic dysfunction,” before creating, “actionable recommendations to transition school menus toward whole-food alternatives.”
The task force would be required to provide a report containing its findings to Governor Bill Lee and General Assembly by December 1, “in order to ensure consideration prior to the 2027 legislative session.”
The legislation comes only weeks after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved Tennessee’s request for food-choice waivers for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), preventing processed foods and sugary treats from being purchased using the public benefit. It also made certain items SNAP eligible, including hot prepared chicken and non-breaded chicken tenders, which were previously prohibited.
“The Trump Administration’s leadership to create innovative, responsible solutions that strengthen families and improve health outcomes will have a lasting impact on Tennesseans for generations to come,” said Governor Bill Lee last month.
Able bodied Tennesseans seeking SNAP benefits must also complete at least 20 hours weekly of work, volunteering, or job training, following changes made by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year.
– – –
Tom Pappert is a 2025 recipient of the Dao Prize and the lead reporter for The Tennessee Star. He also reports for the Star News Network. Follow Tom on X. Email tips to [email protected].
