U.S. health officials announced intentions to phase out eight petroleum-based artificial colors from food as part of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s agenda. This move, supported by the FDA, follows long-standing health advocates' calls for a ban due to studies linking artificial dyes to neurobehavioral issues in children. The plan suggests that food producers will transition to natural substitutes. Notably, some states have already enacted similar bans, reflecting a growing trend towards cleaner food labeling and safer dietary choices in the U.S., akin to practices in Canada and Europe.
Health advocates have long called for the removal of artificial dyes from foods, citing mixed studies indicating they can cause neurobehavioral problems, including hyperactivity and attention issues, in some children.
The FDA currently allows 36 food color additives, including eight synthetic dyes. In January, the agency announced that the dye known as Red 3 - used in candies, cakes and some medications - would be banned by 2028 because it caused cancer in laboratory rats.
The officials are expected to spell out a regulatory path for removing the color additives, a process that typically requires public notice and agency review.
In Canada and in Europe - where artificial colors are required to carry warning labels - manufacturers use natural substitutes.
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