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Yesterday, RFK Jr. and the FDA announced a major initiative to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes as part of the Make America Healthy Again campaign. Key actions include:
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Establishing a national timeline for switching to natural color additives.
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Revoking authorization for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B in the coming months.
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A voluntary phase-out of six other synthetic dyes (including Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5) by the end of 2026.
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Approving new natural alternatives, such as gardenia blue and butterfly pea flower extract.
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Urging companies to remove Red No. 3 earlier than the previously required 2027–2028 deadline.
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Partnering with the NIH to research the effects of food additives on children's health.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary emphasized that companies already use natural dyes in Europe and Canada and should do the same in the U.S. due to growing concerns over links between synthetic dyes and childhood health issues like obesity, ADHD, and depression. During yesterday's press conference, the Commissioner clarified that the agency would not be issuing a ban, but rather asked food manufacturers to comply with the agency's request to remove these food dyes voluntarily.
"For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. During the Q&A, he also indicated that he intends to introduce a legislative proposal on labeling to Congress in the future, but did not specify what that proposal would cover.
Prime Label Consultants is pleased to offer four unique sessions at the 37th annual Food Label Conference to explore recent market trends, evolving policy initiatives of the new administration, and the implications for food ingredients and ultra-processed foods.
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