Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, wants to make food safer. RFK Jr. wants to make significant changes. He just announced a bold plan to remove eight artificial food dyes from America’s food supply. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) supports the plan. At a news conference, Kennedy said food companies should stop using dyes that could harm public health. RFK Jr. wants people to keep fighting for cleaner, safer food. “We’re going to win this battle,” he said. The goal is to get most of these dyes off store shelves by the end of next year.
FDA Moves to Ban Petroleum-Based Color Additives
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary explained that many of these dyes come from petroleum. They are found in everyday foods like cereal, snacks, yogurt, and even ice cream. He said these dyes have been part of children’s diets for over 50 years. Makary called this a “toxic soup.” He announced the FDA will revoke approval for two dyes—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B. These are used less often. The agency will also work with companies to remove six other dyes still found in many products. The list includes Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, and Green No. 3.
Red No. 3 Already Scheduled to Be Removed
The removal of artificial dyes is already underway. Earlier this year, the Biden administration moved to ban Red No. 3. This dye was shown to cause cancer in rats. By 2027, it must be gone from food. By 2028, it must also be removed from medicines. Now, the FDA is asking companies to speed up the process. RFK Jr. wants to see Red No. 3 taken out of products sooner if possible.
Natural Alternatives Will Replace Artificial Ingredients
To help companies replace artificial dyes, the FDA plans to approve four new natural color additives. These will be safer and made from plant-based or other natural sources. This change is meant to give food makers more options. Natural dyes will help meet growing consumer demand for clean ingredients.
Food Companies Agree in Principle to Make the Change
Kennedy said the plan depends on cooperation from food companies. There is no legal agreement, but there is an “understanding.” He believes major companies are willing to help. The FDA and HHS have asked them to follow a national plan. This includes a timeline to switch from petroleum-based dyes to natural ones. Companies were not present at the news conference. Still, both Kennedy and Makary said the industry seems ready to move forward voluntarily.
Color Manufacturers Raise Concerns About the Timeline
Not everyone supports the fast rollout. The International Association of Color Manufacturers said reformulating food is complex. They warned it could take longer than expected. They also said the change could lead to higher costs and fewer products in stores. The group argued the timeline ignores science and practical food production needs.
Memo Shows Food Giants Open to Changes
A memo obtained by ABC News showed that big food companies are already in talks. The memo followed a meeting Kennedy held with companies like PepsiCo and General Mills. It said companies agreed to start reformulating products within 30 days. However, they didn’t promise to remove all dyes by 2026. Still, they offered support and committed to providing dye-free meals for schools.
Food Companies Want a National Approach, Not State Laws
In return, food companies want the federal government to stop new state laws. They say a patchwork of rules could make things harder and more expensive. RFK Jr. wants to work with state leaders. The companies want one clear national standard instead of many local ones. Otherwise, more bans on other ingredients may follow, causing even more confusion and costs.
Here Are the 8 Food Dyes:
- Blue No. 1: Also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, food makers use petroleum to create this dye and add it to products like M&M’s and Takis for a blue hue.
- Blue No. 2: Also known as indigo carmine or indigotine, Blue No. 2 mimics the color and properties of plant-based indigo dye in products like Skittles and blueberry Pop-Tarts.
- Citrus Red No. 2: Florida growers add this dye to orange peels when they sell the fruit fresh and don’t send it for processing.
- Green No. 3: Manufacturers produce the artificial green dye, Fast Green FCF, through chemical synthesis.
- Orange B: The color additive is only permitted for use in hot dog and sausage casings. In high doses, it can damage the liver and bile duct.
- Red dye 40: Also known as Allura Red AC, Red dye 40 gives red color to products like Kool-Aid, Starburst and NyQuil.
- Yellow No. 5: Commonly known as tartrazine, manufacturers add Yellow No. 5 to brightly colored sodas like Mountain Dew and processed snacks like Twinkies.
- Yellow No. 6: Sunset Yellow FCF, imparts a vibrant yellow-orange hue to Airheads, Jolly Ranchers, Lucky Charms and other processed foods.
Some States Already Banning Artificial Dyes in School Meals
While the federal government works on a plan, some states are acting fast. West Virginia will ban artificial dyes from school lunches starting this August. California will do the same in 2028. Other states are thinking about similar laws. These include Texas, Vermont, Iowa, and Washington. In total, at least 26 states are considering bans on food dyes or other additives.
Health Risks of Synthetic Food Dyes Still Debated
Artificial food dyes are found in many things—candy, cereal, drinks, and even medicine. Some studies link them to serious health issues. Dr. Makary said they may increase the risk of ADHD, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and stomach problems. He said 41% of American kids have at least one health condition. One in five children takes medication. He argued that removing harmful additives is a better solution than adding more drugs.
Global Trend Points to Stricter Dye Rules
Many countries have already banned or restricted artificial dyes. Others require warning labels on packaging. The U.S. is now starting to catch up. Kennedy and the FDA hope this move will lead to a healthier future for children and families.
