Ex-NASCAR and IndyCar racer Danica Patrick is rejoicing over a legislative victory in Arizona. The Arizona State House of Representatives recently approved the Arizona Healthy Schools Act (HB2164), prohibiting toxic substances in meals served at public schools. Patrick, a longtime advocate for clean eating, praised the move on social media while sharing her take on Phoenix’s unseasonable 90-degree temperatures.
The bill, approved unanimously, targets additives linked to health risks in children. Patrick’s endorsement adds star power to a growing push for healthier school nutrition and highlights her post-racing focus on wellness.
From Race Tracks to Advocacy: Danica Patrick Backs Arizona’s Food Safety Reform
The Arizona Healthy Schools Act, led by Rep. Leo Biasiucci, bans five substances from school menus: potassium bromate, titanium dioxide, brominated vegetable oil, propylparaben, and synthetic colors Red 40 and Yellow 5. Studies tie these additives to hyperactivity and cancer risks.
Patrick, who has advocated against processed foods since retiring from racing, called the bill a victory. On Instagram, she wrote: “Way to go, Arizona! And @calleymeans for inviting me to share my passion for healthy food in America.”
The 41-year-old often talks about nutrition on her podcast, “Pretty Intense,” encouraging listeners to steer clear of “chemical-laden” diets.
HB2164 follows California’s 2023 ban on similar additives, signaling a broader shift. Patrick’s support amplifies awareness, leveraging her 960,000 Instagram followers to push for nationwide reforms.
Patrick Embraces Phoenix Heatwave Amid Advocacy
As Arizona tackles food safety, it also faces record-breaking temperatures. Phoenix hit 90 degrees in February — weeks earlier than usual — with forecasts predicting highs 15 degrees above normal. Patrick, a Scottsdale, Ariz., resident, welcomed the shift.
“From skiing to swimsuits. So here for it!” she posted on Instagram alongside photos of herself skiing.
Earlier, she captioned a snowy snapshot: “When the weather is perfect in Scottsdale. It’s also ski season! Totally worth it.”
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Meteorologists warned the unseasonal warmth could worsen drought and wildfire risks. Patrick, however, focused on staying active, showcasing hikes up Camelback Mountain and paddleboarding on Arizona’s lakes. Her social media blends fitness tips, racing memories, and glimpses of her life after motorsports, a balance fans praise as inspiring.
