In a landmark move under its “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) have launched sweeping measures to eliminate petroleum-derived synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply. This step marks a major shift toward safer, natural food additive.
National Transition Plan and Regulatory Overhaul Underway
The FDA will soon establish a national standard for food manufacturers. This will include a timeline to shift from synthetic, petrochemical-based dyes to natural alternatives. As part of this plan, the agency is starting the process of revoking authorization for two synthetic dyes. These are Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B. The revocation will occur within the next few months.
Additionally, the FDA is working with industry players to eliminate the remaining six synthetic dyes from the food supply entirely by the end of next year.
Green Light for Natural Alternatives
To support this transition, the FDA has approved four new natural color additives. It is also accelerating the review of several others, including calcium phosphate, glideria extract blue, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract. These plant and mineral-based substitutes are expected to replace petroleum-based counterparts in a wide range of food products.
Research Focus on Children’s Health Impacts
The FDA, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will conduct in-depth research on the effects of food additives. This research will focus on how artificial dyes impact children’s health, behavior, and development. The findings will inform future regulatory decisions and public health guidelines.
Government Speaks Out Against Hidden Chemical Risks
“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. “These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our children’s health and development,” Kennedy Jr added.
Toward a Safer, More Transparent Food System
The crackdown signals a bold step toward greater transparency and safety in the US food industry. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the FDA and HHS are pushing for cleaner labels and healthier ingredients. As a result, the industry is poised for a major shift in how food is formulated and marketed.
