Federal Officials to Announce Plan to Remove Synthetic Food Dyes from US Supply

Move targets petroleum-based color additives used in children’s foods; FDA monitoring behavioral concerns, industry faces reformulation challenge

Red Shades — IMAGE CREDIT: Prepared Foods

The Trump administration is poised to unveil a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from the US food supply, according to a statement released Monday by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary are scheduled to outline the proposed initiative at a press conference this afternoon, April 22, 2025. The move signals a significant shift in food policy that could impact product formulations across a wide range of categories, particularly those targeted toward children.

Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration permits the use of 36 color additives in food, including nine synthetic dyes derived from petroleum. These dyes are commonly found in brightly colored candies, breakfast cereals, beverages, and other processed foods.

Among the artificial dyes under scrutiny is Red No. 3, a petroleum-based additive approved for food use in 1907 and recently banned in January over concerns related to cancer risk. Food manufacturers have until 2027 to remove Red No. 3 from their products, while pharmaceutical companies have until 2028.

While the FDA maintains that a definitive link between synthetic dyes and behavioral issues in children has not been established, the agency continues to monitor emerging research. A 2021 assessment by California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment reviewed 27 clinical studies and concluded that food dyes may adversely affect behavior in some children.

The proposed plan is expected to prompt reformulation efforts among food and beverage companies, particularly those with portfolios focused on children and families. More details will be made available following today’s announcement.