Arkansas Moms Celebrate FDA’s Stand Against Harmful Food Dyes: Why It Matters for Our Families

The FDA is set to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes, a decision that has many health-conscious parents cheering. In Arkansas, local moms have taken to Facebook, expressing their support for this move, especially for those looking to curb hyperactivity in their children.

These synthetic dyes, like Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5, have faced intense criticism. Experts, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, have voiced concerns about their negative effects on children’s behavior.

Alyssa Frisby, a registered dietitian at UAMS, explains the problem well. "These dyes are tied to issues like hyperactivity and attention span difficulties," she says. "Also, some kids have sensitivities to these additives. So, there’s really no solid reason to keep them in our food."

Parents are sharing personal stories that highlight these concerns. Juliana Grist’s son was diagnosed with ADHD at just four years old. She noticed he struggled with emotions and irritability. In search of natural solutions, Grist decided to eliminate dyes from her son’s diet. "We saw a huge improvement," she recalls.

Gennie Cook, who runs a daycare called Gigi’s Place in Carlisle, has observed similar changes in her students. "When they stopped consuming dye, their behavior shifted completely. They became happier and more focused."

Currently, these synthetic dyes are everywhere—from colorful snacks to medicines. Cook points out that even something like Benadryl can have a noticeable impact. "We’ve switched to a dye-free version, and it makes a big difference. Kids are less jittery without the dyes," she shares.

The FDA plans to eliminate six dyes by the end of next year. They’re also urging food companies to remove Red Dye No. 3 sooner than the originally proposed deadline of 2027-2028.

This shift toward reducing synthetic dyes reflects a growing awareness around food ingredients and their effects on health. According to a recent survey, nearly 60% of parents are actively looking for dye-free options in their children’s products, showcasing a strong trend toward healthier, more natural choices.

For more insights on this topic, check out this CDC report about food additives and children’s health. As more parents advocate for dye-free foods, we might see lasting changes in how food is made and marketed.

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FDA,Synthetic dyes,Arkansas,Hyperactivity,Food sensitivities,ADHD,Health issues,Dye-free