FDA eliminates petroleum-based synthetic dyes from USA food supply

USA – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a series of new measures to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply.

The FDA is establishing a national standard and timeline for the food industry’s transition from petrochemical-based dyes to natural alternatives.

Within the coming months, the FDA will initiate the process to revoke authorisation for two synthetic food colourings—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B.

The department is also working with industries to eliminate six remaining synthetic dyes —FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2 —from the food supply by the end of next year.

Additionally, the department will authorise four new natural colour additives in the coming weeks and accelerate the review and approval of others.

It will partner with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct comprehensive research on the impact of food additives on children’s health and development.

Lastly, it has requested that food companies remove FD&C Red No. 3 sooner than the previously required 2027-2028 deadline.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., said, “For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent. These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose measurable dangers to our children’s health and development.

“That era is coming to an end. We’re restoring gold-standard science, applying common sense, and beginning to earn back the public’s trust. And we’re working with industry to get these toxic dyes out of the foods our families eat daily.”

USA eliminates artificial food additives

The announcement to phase out petroleum-based dyes comes as state policies to eliminate artificial colours gain momentum.

West Virginia has signed into law a bill restricting the use of seven artificial dyes in food products sold in the state. According to the Environmental Working Group, several other states have introduced bills aimed at food additives, including artificial colours.

Groups representing various food industry sectors agreed to comply with the policy. The National Confectioners Association stated that USA candy makers would continue to follow regulatory guidance from authorities in this space, as consumer safety is their primary responsibility and priority.

However, some industries emphasise that artificial dyes have been rigorously studied by regulatory agencies and are backed by peer-reviewed scientific research.

The Consumer Brands Association, representing food giants like Kellogg and Coca-Cola, stressed that the ingredients are safe and that the policy changes are meant to limit consumer confusion amid a growing number of state laws.

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