HHS and FDA Outline Timeline for Eliminating Petroleum-Based Food Dyes

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have announced detailed plans to phase out all petroleum-derived synthetic dyes in the nation’s food supply. This significant move aims to replace harmful petrochemical-based food colorings with natural alternatives, aligning regulations with practices already adopted in Europe and Canada.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., emphasized that the agency is urging food producers to switch to natural ingredients, encouraging the industry to follow the example set abroad. To implement this transition, the FDA is working on establishing a clear national standard and timeline for the food industry to adopt natural dyes.

The initial step involves revoking approval for two synthetic colorings, Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, within the upcoming months. Subsequently, the agency plans to collaborate with the food industry to eliminate six additional synthetic dyes, including FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2, aiming to accomplish this by the end of 2026. Additionally, the removal of FD&C Red No. 3 will be prioritized, ahead of the previous deadline between 2027 and 2028.

In parallel, the FDA will authorize four new natural color additives—calcium phosphate, Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract—by accelerating the review process. These natural alternatives will be supported with guidance and regulatory flexibility to facilitate industry adoption.

Furthermore, the FDA has announced a partnership with the National Institutes of Health to conduct comprehensive research on how food additives affect children’s health and development.

For more details, visit FDA’s official statement.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-hhs-fda-timeline-phasing-petroleum.html