Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reportedly now set to announce a plan to phase out eight petroleum-based food dyes commonly found in cereals, sports drinks, and other grocery items by the end of 2026.
This initiative, which will impact hundreds of thousands of products, aims to address health concerns linked to these artificial dyes, which have been associated with hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in children.
The targeted dyes include Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, Red No. 3, and Orange B.
Industry experts estimate that reformulating products to eliminate these dyes could cost billions, although many companies have already adapted their formulations for the European and Canadian markets, where natural alternatives like blueberries and carrots are used.
FDA Commissioner Martin Makary supports the initiative, aligning it with President Trump’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing children’s health, stating, “Why gamble with the health of our children?”
Makary advocates for erring on the side of safety rather than risking potential health issues for the sake of appealing colors in food.
Recent actions, such as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s investigation into Kellogg for misleading marketing practices, underscore the increasing scrutiny on food manufacturers regarding artificial ingredients.
Following similar state-level bans, consumer advocacy campaigns have intensified pressure on companies to reformulate their products.
Kennedy previously convened executives from major food brands like PepsiCo and General Mills to discuss the urgency of eliminating harmful food dyes, marking a significant shift in federal policy toward food safety and children’s health.
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