The Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ Consumer Protection Committee recently held a hearing to discuss the Healthy PA legislative package, which includes eight bills aimed at improving food safety. State Representative Natalie Mihalek, who authored the package, emphasized the need for greater scrutiny of food products beyond industry assurances.
“We must demand scrutiny beyond the assurances of industry that what we are eating is safe,” Mihalek stated. “When the seller and scientist are one and the same, how can the average consumer differentiate between marketing and science.”
Mihalek argued for cleaning up the food supply, citing health consequences from chemicals and artificial ingredients in readily available foods. She criticized federal efforts on this front and called for state-level action: “Since the federal government has failed to protect us, we have a duty to act in the state legislature to protect the people of Pennsylvania. We cannot afford to wait.”
Support for these bills came from organizations like The Environmental Working Group, Rodale Institute, Michael J. Fox Foundation, Kellyn Foundation, and Unleaded Kids. However, opposition was voiced by groups such as the International Association of Color Manufacturers, National Confectioners Association, and PA Chamber.
During a press event following testimony, Mihalek introduced an initiative she termed “Trillion Dollar Tree,” highlighting chronic diseases linked to metabolic dysfunction caused by toxic chemicals in food. She remarked on current spending priorities: “We spend $5 trillion every year treating the branches and absolutely nothing fighting back against what is attacking our roots.”
Expressing gratitude towards bipartisan support from 40 co-sponsors, Mihalek concluded with optimism about future actions: “Together we will create a path forward for the Pennsylvania consumer.”
Advocates also engaged lawmakers at the Capitol to emphasize these bills’ significance.
