Photo credit: www.dexerto.com
The U.S. government is poised to ban eight artificial food dyes, marking a significant reform in the ingredients found in many of the nation’s favorite snacks.
On April 22, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary shared insights about this decision during a press briefing. They outlined a national standard and a timeline for the food sector to discontinue the use of these synthetic dyes.
Makary stated that the FDA will implement measures to revoke the authorization for these synthetic food coloring agents soon. They indicated that the FDA intends to phase out the remaining synthetic dyes, including Red 40, by the conclusion of 2026.
#BREAKING – THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION HAS OFFICIALLY MOVED TO BAN VIRTUALLY ALL ARTIFICIAL FOOD DYES IN THE U.S. FOOD SUPPLY AT RFK JR.’S DIRECTION.
Six dyes identified for elimination include: Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3, all targeted for removal by the end of 2026.
FDA Commissioner Makary commented: “This… pic.twitter.com/Z2cq4xh4PW
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 22, 2025
This initiative is a component of RFK Jr.’s ‘Make America Healthy Again’ program, which aims to address the underlying causes of America’s growing health challenges.
According to the Associated Press, this change contrasts with typical procedures which necessitate public disclosures and comprehensive internal evaluations before such policy shifts occur.
U.S. Prohibits Synthetic Food Dyes in Major Reform of Snack Products
Currently, the Food and Drug Administration permits the usage of 36 food coloring agents, which encompasses the eight synthetic dyes now set for prohibition.
This regulatory alteration follows the FDA’s announcement to eliminate Red 3 from food items and pharmaceuticals by 2028, a decision influenced by research indicating a potential cancer risk in laboratory animals. This shift underscores a broader commitment by the government to phase out synthetic food dyes.
“The FDA is moving to rescind the approval for FD&C Red No. 3 for use in food and medications,” stated Jim Jones, the FDA’s deputy commissioner for human foods, earlier this year. “Research indicates cancer risk in male rats subjected to high levels of FD&C Red No. 3, though the specific cancer-causing mechanism is not applicable to humans.”
This dye has been banned in cosmetics for over 35 years, and its prohibition in food and drug applications comes after prolonged advocacy from health organizations.
Source
www.dexerto.com