Popular Food Additives On The Chopping Block
Federal health authorities are preparing to take more decisive action to limit artificial food dyes in the U.S. food supply, according to recent reports. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary are expected to unveil new initiatives aimed at reducing or eliminating synthetic dyes from foods, beverages, and certain medications. This builds on earlier steps taken by the FDA, including a January decision to prohibit the use of red dye No. 3—an additive linked to cancer in animal studies.
The renewed focus on food dyes follows growing concern about the potential health risks associated with petroleum-based color additives. Kennedy, who has been vocal about the dangers of these synthetic substances, has backed recent state-level legislation targeting the issue. In March, he supported West Virginia’s groundbreaking law banning several artificial dyes, making it the first state to implement such sweeping restrictions. Research has raised alarms about the impact of these dyes on children’s behavior and development, including issues with attention and sleep.
Momentum is growing nationwide, with more than half of U.S. states now pushing for tighter regulation of food dyes, regardless of political affiliation. However, the effort has prompted debate over who should lead these regulatory efforts. Industry groups like the National Confectioners Association and the Consumer Brands Association argue that the FDA should remain the central authority on food safety, cautioning against a fragmented system of state-by-state rules.
Artificial dyes like red No. 40, yellow No. 5, and blue No. 2 have been linked to various health concerns, including cancer and behavioral issues in sensitive individuals. Critics argue that safer, non-petroleum alternatives are already widely used in other countries, and that U.S. food manufacturers should follow suit. Nutrition experts like Marion Nestle have praised the proposed crackdown but stress that more significant challenges—such as addressing the broader issue of ultra-processed foods—still lie ahead.
Many of the artificial dyes are commonly found in low-nutrient items like sweets and soft drinks, but they can also appear in everyday foods that don’t appear artificially colored. Public health organizations encourage consumers to check ingredient labels if they wish to avoid synthetic dyes while the government considers broader action.
Discussion about this post