The US Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) plans to eliminate several artificial food dyes, citing potential health risks, by the end of 2026.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced the initiative to phase out eight synthetic dyes, including Red No. 3, which has been linked to cancer in animal studies. The FDA will revoke authorisation for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, while collaborating with industry to remove six other dyes.
Makary stated, “For the last 50 years, we have been running one of the largest uncontrolled scientific experiments in the world on our nation’s children, without their consent.”
The FDA also plans to introduce four new natural colour additives and expedite approval for more, aiming to replace synthetic dyes with natural alternatives like beet and carrot juice.
While some scientists argue that current research does not conclusively support the health risks of artificial dyes, the FDA’s move aligns with growing consumer demand for cleaner food labels. Companies like W.K. Kellogg have already committed to reformulating products accordingly.
The Consumer Brands Association has proposed eliminating artificial dyes voluntarily, with plans to make dye-free products available to schools within the year.
This initiative follows California’s 2023 ban on certain food dyes in school meals and aligns with similar efforts in other states.
