Are Food Dyes Getting Banned in the U.S. and Why?

The FDA announced plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes by the end of 2026, following a press conference with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. The agency will work with industry partners to replace artificial dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 with natural alternatives and expedite approval for new natural color additives.

The FDA also plans to research food additives’ impact on children's health in partnership with NIH. Public health advocates have welcomed the move as a positive step, though some expressed concerns about the voluntary nature of the transition. Read more from USA Today here.