In a landmark announcement, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary unveiled plans to eliminate all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the American food supply.
MAHA ANGLE: This represents one of the most significant food safety actions in FDA history. The agency is working to revoke authorization for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B within months, while partnering with industry to eliminate Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, and Green No. 3 by end of 2026.
'For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent,' Secretary Kennedy stated. 'These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our children's health and development.'
The FDA is fast-tracking approval of natural alternatives including Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract. Major food companies including PepsiCo and General Mills have indicated willingness to reformulate products.
What you can do: Support companies already removing dyes. Check labels and choose products without Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and other synthetic colorings.