FDA Takes Action: Ban on Petroleum-Based Dyes in U.S. Food Supply on the Horizon

On April 22, 2025, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., along with FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary, announced a significant move to ban petroleum-based food dyes from U.S. food products. Kennedy emphasized that these dyes are linked to various chronic illnesses. This announcement comes after discussions with food industry leaders about the need for change.

Here’s what the FDA’s new plan includes:

1. Starting to phase out Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, which are used mainly on orange peels and in sausage casings.
2. Creating a timeline for food makers to shift from synthetic dyes like FD&C Red No. 40 and FD&C Yellow No. 5 to natural color alternatives by the end of 2026.
3. Approving four new natural color additives to replace harmful dyes.
4. Speeding up the removal of FD&C Red No. 3, with a new timeline to be announced.

While the FDA hasn’t detailed how it will begin this removal process for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, it could simply involve repealing the regulation that allows their use. This method could avoid lengthy committee reviews, making the process quicker. Some states, like California and West Virginia, have already banned these dyes, prompting companies to look for alternatives.

Kennedy’s strong stance on food dyes and their potential health risks could lead to more lawsuits against food companies that still use these dyes. Given his background as a trial lawyer, this trend may pressure companies to reformulate faster to avoid legal trouble. Even though regulatory processes may take time, the FDA’s announcement suggests a push for rapid voluntary compliance from food manufacturers.

Food companies should consider taking these steps as a response:

• Check their product ingredients for any of the dyes mentioned.
• Work with suppliers to find safer alternatives.
• Explore reformulations using natural dyes.
• Evaluate their marketing materials for claims that could raise health concerns.
• Update product packaging to reflect any ingredient changes.

As this situation develops, we’ll keep an eye on any new regulations and updates.

For further insights, you can refer to this FDA report.

Source link