The United States government announced its intention to eliminate artificial colorings from foods and beverages before the end of 2026 due to their negative impact on children's health.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will give the food industry a transition period of about two years to replace petroleum-derived dyes with natural alternatives.
"Too long, some producers have been feeding consumers with petroleum-derived chemicals without warning. Now is the time for a profound change," said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at a press conference.
For his part, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary stated that over the past five decades, American children have increasingly been living "in a toxic soup of synthetic chemicals."
Makary admitted that the agency has not confirmed that artificial dyes cause behavioral problems, but he referenced studies from other groups suggesting that these dyes could lead to disorders in minors, such as hyperactivity.
Synthetic colorants are added to thousands of foods designed for children, such as candies, cereals, and sodas, giving them a brighter and more appealing hue.
The federal initiative includes the immediate approval of four new plant-based colorants: calcium phosphate, blue Galdieria extract, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract, which will facilitate the production of products free from synthetic pigments.
"For companies currently using petroleum-based red dye, try watermelon juice or beet juice," suggested Makary.
"For companies currently combining petroleum-based yellow chemicals and red dyes, try carrot juice," the official added, acknowledging that eliminating artificial dyes will not make children healthier "instantly."
In the last 50 years, the FDA has approved 36 color additives for food use, nine of which are synthetic and derived from petroleum.
One of them, Red No. 3 -used to give a cherry hue to certain candies and soft drinks- was banned in January after studies with rodents showed a cancer risk. In the coming months, the authorization of two more colorants will be revoked.
For the remaining six artificial dyes, the agency committed to working closely with manufacturers to complete their replacement with naturally derived compounds by no later than December 2026.
Experts in public nutrition consider the two-year timeline feasible, although they expect resistance.
Marion Nestlé from New York University applauded the measure, noting that "these dyes do not provide nutritional value and only serve to enhance the appearance of ultra-processed foods loaded with empty calories."
In addition to the substitution of colorants, the FDA announced a partnership with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to begin studies that delve into the impact of additives on children's health.
In the halls of Congress and among consumers, the news has been met with mixed reactions: while public health advocates celebrate the initiative as a significant step, industry sectors argue for gradual and voluntary policies.
The truth is that, if the announced schedule is consolidated, the United States will enter a new phase in which the most colorful products will owe their hue to roots, vegetables, and flowers, rather than to petroleum.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Removal of Artificial Dyes in the U.S.
Why will the United States eliminate artificial colorings from food?
The United States will eliminate artificial colorings from food due to their negative impact on children's health. The FDA has acknowledged studies suggesting that these dyes could cause disorders in minors, such as hyperactivity. Furthermore, synthetic colorings do not provide nutritional value and only enhance the appearance of ultra-processed products.
What are the natural alternatives to artificial colorants that will be used?
The approved natural alternatives include calcium phosphate, Galdieria blue extract, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract. These alternatives will facilitate the production of synthetic pigment-free products, promoting the use of natural juices such as watermelon, beet, and carrot to achieve desired colors in food.
What will be the transition process to eliminate artificial colorants in the U.S.?
The FDA will grant a transition period of about two years for companies to replace artificial dyes with natural alternatives. During this time, companies will work to replace the remaining six synthetic dyes before December 2026, collaborating with the FDA to ensure an effective transition.
What impact will the removal of synthetic dyes have on public health?
The elimination of synthetic dyes could reduce potential health risks for children, such as behavioral disorders. Although children are not expected to become healthier overnight, this measure is seen as a step towards safer and healthier eating, reducing exposure to petroleum-based chemicals.
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