California is taking bold action to combat a significant driver of chronic disease: ultra-processed foods and synthetic food dyes. Governor Gavin Newsom recently issued an executive order aimed at curbing these harmful substances and promoting healthier dietary standards across the state. With research linking ultra-processed foods and artificial dyes to obesity, cardiovascular disease, ADHD, and even cancer, this initiative is a step forward for public health—and could set a precedent for other states to follow.