The US government has announced plans to persuade food companies to voluntarily eliminate petroleum-based artificial dyes from their products by the end of 2026, citing limited evidence of potential health risks. Sensient Technologies Corp., a leading dyemaker, is working with major brands to develop natural alternatives.
The FDA allows about three dozen color additives, including eight synthetic dyes. However, making the switch to natural colors won’t be easy or fast. It can take six months to a year to convert a single product from synthetic dye to natural one, and it may require up to four years to build up supply of botanical products.
Natural dyes are harder to make and use than artificial colors. They are less consistent in color, less stable, and subject to changes related to acidity, heat, and light. Blue is especially difficult to replicate with natural sources. Natural dyes also cost about 10 times more than synthetic versions.
Companies such as PepsiCo and General Mills plan to accelerate a shift to natural colors in some of their products. PepsiCo’s Lays and Tostitos brands will phase out artificial colors by the end of this year, while General Mills is reformulating cereals used in school lunch programs to eliminate artificial dyes.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires a sample of each batch of synthetic colors to be submitted for testing and certification. Color additives derived from plant, animal, or mineral sources are exempt but have been evaluated by the agency.
Industry experts say that the removal of artificial dyes is a key component of reducing chronic health problems associated with ultraprocessed foods. Food policy expert Marion Nestle notes that “artificial food dyes are strictly cosmetic, have no health or safety purpose, and may be harmful to some children.”
The US government’s plan to phase out artificial colors in food supply by 2026 marks a significant step towards reducing the use of these additives in food products. However, experts caution that changes can backfire if not implemented carefully.
Source: https://fortune.com/2025/04/28/rfk-jr-eliminate-petroleum-artificial-food-dyes-tiny-bugs-peru-barbie-pink