The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unveiled a plan on Tuesday to begin phasing out eight synthetic food dyes from the nation’s food supply, aiming for full removal by the end of next year.
Synthetic dyes are found in everything from candy and cereal to medications; however, the long-term health effects of these dyes remain under scrutiny. Other countries have already banned them or required warning labels, but the U.S. has lagged behind in regulatory action.
According to a release from the Department of Health and Human Services, the FDA will give the food industry roughly two years to transition from petroleum-based synthetic dyes to natural alternative; and will also authorize four new food dyes it says are derived from natural sources in the coming weeks.
During a press conference, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shared that federal agencies will collaborate with food manufacturers to eliminate the use of these additives in various products: “this is not the moment to let up. We need to push harder. We have momentum now, and we’re going to win this fight. In four years, either these chemicals will be gone from our food, or consumers will be clearly warned before they buy them.”
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary also. announced at the press conference that they plan to revoke the approval of two artificial colorings while partnering with companies to eliminate six more from commonly consumed products like yogurt, cereal, snacks, and frozen desserts. Citing research linking synthetic colorings made from petroleum to various health concerns such as ADHD, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and gastrointestinal issues, Makary said: “the FDA is taking decisive steps to remove petroleum-derived dyes not just from foods, but also from medications. For decades, our children have been surrounded by a mix of synthetic chemicals. It’s time for change .. why are we risking our kids’ health? Nearly 41% of children in this country suffer from at least one chronic condition, and one in five are on prescription drugs. Instead of relying on more medications like Ozempic or ADHD treatments, we must address what’s causing these issues in the first place.”
The Biden administration began the process of banning Red No. 3 earlier this year ear (which is linked to cancer in animal studies). That dye must be eliminated from food by 2027 and from medications by 2028. FDA officials asked manufacturers to accelerate efforts to remove Red No. 3 from their products at Tuesday’s press conference.
The FDA plans to begin the process of withdrawing approval for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B in the coming months; with an additional six dyes set for phase-out by late 2026 including: Red No. 40, Yellow Nos. 5 and 6, Green No. 3, and Blue Nos. 1 and 2.
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