California has banned 26 chemicals used in cosmetics and four common food additives. The chemicals banned in cosmetics include vinyl acetate, boron substances, certain colors, and styrene, which are found in hundreds of products such as hair products, body wash, and nail polish. The new law marks another move that could influence the consumer landscape of not only California but also the rest of the nation. The chemicals banned in food products include brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, and red dye No. 3, which have been linked to health problems such as cancer, genetic defects, and environmental damage. The ban goes into effect on January 1, 2027, and violations may result in penalties up to $5,000 for a first violation and $10,000 for each subsequent violation. The law is likely to have a ripple effect across the country, as food and drink manufacturers are unlikely to make a version of their products just for California and could tweak the ingredient lists for as many as 12,000 products sold nationwide.