Clyde edgerton banned skittles

California lawmakers are considering banning the manufacture, sale, or distribution of foods containing five chemicals that have been linked to health problems and are already banned in Europe.

The legislation, known as AB 418, would theoretically ban a whole host of foods, from hard candies like Skittles and Hot Tamales, to Nesquik strawberry milk and many baked goods, breads and sodas.

But the lawmaker behind the legislation making national headlines says that's far too simplistic and highly unlikely even if it passes.

Here's what you need to know about what the legislation is trying to accomplish and how it could have broader impacts beyond California's state line.

The legislation

If AB 418 passes, California would be the first state in the nation to ban the following five chemicals from foods: 

• Titanium dioxide, found in candies including Skittles and M&Ms, and some dairy products such