HHS, FDA move to phase out 8 artificial food dyes in the US
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services recently made a groundbreaking announcement regarding the removal of eight artificial food dyes and colorings from America’s food supply by the end of next year. This decision comes after years of research linking these synthetic dyes to various health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and gastrointestinal issues.
During a press conference, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary emphasized the importance of eliminating petroleum-based food dyes from the U.S. food supply and medications. He highlighted the need to address the underlying root causes of health issues in American children, rather than relying on medications to treat symptoms. The FDA also plans to authorize four new natural color additives made from natural ingredients in the near future.
Former President Joe Biden’s administration had previously initiated the process to ban Red No. 3 due to its carcinogenic properties, and now HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is pushing for the removal of six other petroleum-based dyes approved by the FDA. These include Green No. 3, Citrus Red No. 2, Red No. 40, Orange B, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, and Blue No. 2. Kennedy is also working to revoke authorization for two synthetic food colorings, Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, in the coming months.
The department is set to introduce four new natural color additives to replace the synthetic dyes, signaling a significant shift towards healthier and more natural food products. The enforcement mechanism for these changes is still under consideration, but Kennedy’s swift action indicates a commitment to implementing these reforms quickly.
Synthetic food dyes are commonly used in a wide range of products, from candy to breakfast cereal to medications. Studies have suggested that these dyes can have adverse effects on health, prompting many countries to either ban them or require warning labels on food packaging. While the full extent of the health risks associated with synthetic dyes is not yet known, several have been linked to allergic reactions, hyperactivity in children, and cancer in animal studies.
States like West Virginia and California have taken proactive measures to ban artificial food dyes from school lunches, with plans to extend these restrictions statewide. Other states are also considering similar legislation to regulate chemical additives in foods. The Environmental Working Group has compiled a list of states exploring these measures, indicating a growing awareness of the potential risks posed by synthetic food dyes.
In conclusion, the decision to phase out synthetic food dyes marks a significant step towards a healthier and more natural food supply in the United States. By prioritizing the well-being of consumers, the FDA and HHS are paving the way for a safer and more sustainable food industry.
