US to Phase Out Artificial Colorings: A Push for Healthier Food
26 April 2025 · Uncategorized ·
Source: · https://technews.tw/2025/04/23/us-plans-to-phase-out-artificial-food-dyes-by-the-end-of-2026/
Result
The Trump administration has announced plans to gradually phase out artificial food colorings in the US, a move reflecting rare bipartisan consensus in a politically divided climate. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that, under the slogan “Let America Be Healthy Again” (MAHA), efforts will be made to reform the American food system by phasing out eight approved artificial colors by 2026, building on former President Biden’s ban of Red 3 dye. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Martin A. Makary cited studies linking synthetic colorings to a range of health issues, including ADHD, diabetes, cancer, genetic abnormalities, and gastrointestinal problems. Kennedy framed the issue as one of public health, referencing a period when, in his uncle President John F. Kennedy’s era, Americans were among the world’s healthiest populations.
Peter Lurie from the Center for Science in the Public Interest noted that eight synthetic colorings, often derived from petroleum, are widely used. Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40 are among the most prevalent. These dyes appear in numerous products, including beverages, candies, cereals, sauces, and dairy items, offering no nutritional value and potentially misleading consumers through enhanced appearance for marketing purposes.
The Trump administration has announced plans to gradually phase out artificial food colorings in the US, a move reflecting rare bipartisan consensus in a politically divided climate. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that, under the slogan “Let America Be Healthy Again” (MAHA), efforts will be made to reform the American food system by phasing out eight approved artificial colors by 2026, building on former President Biden’s ban of Red 3 dye. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Martin A. Makary cited studies linking synthetic colorings to a range of health issues, including ADHD, diabetes, cancer, genetic abnormalities, and gastrointestinal problems. Kennedy framed the issue as one of public health, referencing a period when, in his uncle President John F. Kennedy’s era, Americans were among the world’s healthiest populations.
Peter Lurie from the Center for Science in the Public Interest noted that eight synthetic colorings, often derived from petroleum, are widely used. Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40 are among the most prevalent. These dyes appear in numerous products, including beverages, candies, cereals, sauces, and dairy items, offering no nutritional value and potentially misleading consumers through enhanced appearance for marketing purposes.