FDA to Phase Out Artificial Food Dyes by End of 2026

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it will eliminate petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from the American food supply by the end of 2026, citing growing concerns over their health effects and consumer demand for natural alternatives.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. revealed the initiative, which will impact widely consumed products such as Gatorade, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Fruit Loops, and Skittles.

Colorful liquids | Source: Pexels

“For companies that are currently using petroleum-based red dye, try watermelon juice or beet juice,” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary advised during a press briefing on April 22. He also offered an alternative for the combination of petroleum-based yellow chemical and red dyes: carrot juice.

Currently, nine synthetic color additives made from petroleum are FDA-approved. Of these, six will be phased out by the end of next year. The FDA also plans to revoke authorization for the remaining two—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B—in the coming months.

Red Dye No. 3, banned in California in 2023 over potential cancer risks, is already scheduled for a nationwide ban by 2027. The Trump administration is now urging companies to act sooner.

Bowl of colorful cereal | Source: Pexels

Scientific opinion on the health risks of artificial dyes remains mixed. “There’s no research that we know of that says they’re harmful in humans,” said Frederic Bertley, President of the Center of Science & Industry. Still, experts like Bertley and registered dietitian Vanessa Rissetto emphasize moderation.