Photo credit: www.cnbc.com
Changes in the food industry may soon alter the iconic appearance of popular snacks like Skittles. By the end of 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aims to eliminate all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from food products in the United States, transitioning toward more natural alternatives, as stated by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary suggested options for companies relying on these synthetic colors. “For those using petroleum-derived red dye, alternatives such as watermelon juice or beet juice could be beneficial,” he stated during a recent press briefing. He also recommended carrot juice for those mixing yellow and red petroleum-based dyes.
Currently, the FDA has approved nine artificial color additives fabricated from petroleum, which are prevalent in items such as Fruit Loops, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, and Gatorade. These dyes serve the primary function of enhancing the visual appeal of food and beverages.
The use of artificial colorants has recently attracted significant scrutiny. In 2023, California implemented a ban on Red Dye No. 3 due to potentially dangerous cancer risks. Past research has indicated that large quantities of this dye led to tumor formation in male rats. Additionally, the Biden administration has established a timeline for the ban on Red No. 3 to take effect in 2027. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has encouraged food manufacturers to eliminate this dye even sooner. By the end of 2026, six remaining artificial dyes sanctioned by the FDA must also be phased out.
In the coming months, the FDA plans to initiate the removal process for the remaining artificial dyes, particularly Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B.
There remain questions about the safety of artificial dyes. Experts, including Frederic Bertley, CEO and President of the Center of Science & Industry, emphasized that while no definitive research indicates they are harmful to humans, moderation is essential. “It’s about examining your overall dietary habits and lifestyle,” Bertley noted. He added that minimizing intake of these substances does not pose any harm, but rather encourages a balanced diet.
Awareness of potential behavioral effects in children has been highlighted by RFK Jr. and Makary. Makary referenced a study published in The Lancet that suggested a correlation between artificial dye consumption and increased hyperactivity in children. Although the FDA has yet to verify this link, it is committed to further investigating the impact of these additives on children’s behavior.
While the consensus on the health implications of synthetic dyes remains inconclusive, experts like Vanessa Rissetto, a registered dietitian and co-founder of Culina Health, advocate for revisiting this topic thoroughly. “The affordability of such processed foods often drives consumer choices,” she stated. Rissetto believes that reducing the use of additives may contribute to improved public health.
Given current evidence, Rissetto contends that consuming foods with synthetic dyes in moderation is generally considered safe. She encourages people not to purge their kitchens but to practice moderation. “It’s about enjoying your favorite snacks, like Doritos, while being mindful of quantity,” she affirmed.
The proposed changes primarily affect major food corporations, including PepsiCo and WK Kellogg, as they shift away from synthetic dyes. Transitioning to natural alternatives could lead to increased consumer prices. “Natural products typically come at a higher cost,” Bertley explained.
However, he posits that the health benefits of using natural dye sources, such as vegetable and fruit juices, outweigh the drawbacks. The potential for an unappealing appearance in cereals, if they lack vibrant colors, is not a health concern in his view.
Source
www.cnbc.com