On April 22, 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a series of new measures to quickly phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader initiative to Make America Healthy Again. Specifically, FDA is taking the following actions:
- Within the coming months, initiate the process to revoke authorization for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B
- By the end of 2026, work with industry to eliminate the six remaining petroleum-based dyes: Green No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, and Blue No. 2
- Request food companies to remove Red No. 3 sooner than the 2027-2028 deadline previously established
In addition, FDA has announced that it is fast-tracking the review of calcium phosphate, Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, butterfly pea flower extract, and other natural alternatives to synthetic food dyes. The agency also stated it is “taking steps to issue guidance and provide regulatory flexibilities to industries.” Further, FDA announced that in partnership with the NIH Nutrition Regulatory Science and Research Program, the agency will enhance nutrition and food-related research to better inform regulatory decisions.
The proposed changes will affect many companies as petroleum-based food dyes are widely used in food products and most likely will impact dietary supplements manufacturers, although dietary supplements were not explicitly referenced. According to HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy, HHS does not have a formal agreement with food companies to remove artificial dyes by the above deadlines, but instead there is “an understanding.”
While FDA’s actions align with recent state legislation, the patchwork continues. For example, phase one of West Virginia’s far-reaching legislation regarding artificial food colors kicks in this year, on August 1, 2025.
