FDA to Ban Eight Food Dyes Following HHS Secretary Kennedy's Push
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leads effort to remove petroleum-based colorings
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced plans to phase out eight petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from America's food supply. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has long targeted artificial food colorings, described the ban as a 'no-brainer' during a Tuesday news conference, citing both health and behavioral problems associated with these additives. The FDA had already banned Red No. 3 in January after studies showed it caused cancer in laboratory rats.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary stated the agency is requesting food companies remove Red No. 3 sooner than the previously established deadlines of January 2027 for food products and January 2028 for medications. The FDA plans to revoke authorization for two synthetic food colorings—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B—in the coming months, with the remaining six to be removed from the food supply by the end of 2026. These colorings are commonly found in popular consumer products including candies, cereals, and processed snacks.
KEY POINTS
- •FDA phasing out eight food dyes
- •RFK Jr. cites health and behavior risks
- •Complete ban expected by end of 2026
The health concerns surrounding these dyes vary but include serious issues identified in research studies. Blue No. 1 has been linked to potential kidney tumors in mice, while Blue No. 2 has been associated with brain gliomas in male rats. Other dyes like Red 40 and Yellow No. 5 have been connected to hyperactivity and irritability in children, particularly those with ADHD, as well as allergic reactions in some individuals. Yellow No. 6 can be contaminated with the carcinogen benzidine during manufacturing.
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