The Trump administration is poised to announce plans to phase out oil-based synthetic food dyes from U.S. food supplies, according to a statement released Monday by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Health and Human Services Director Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty McCurry will outline the initiative proposed at the afternoon press conference on April 22, 2025. This move shows significant changes in food policies that could affect product formulation across a wide range of categories, particularly targeting children.
Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration allows foods to use 36 colours of additives, including nine synthetic dyes derived from petroleum. These dyes are common in brightly colored candies, breakfast cereals, drinks and other processed foods.
Among the artificial dyes under scrutiny are petroleum-based additives approved for food use in 1907, and Red No. 3, which was recently banned in January for concerns related to cancer risk. Food manufacturers need to remove third No. 3 from their products until 2027, and pharmaceutical companies until 2028.
The FDA argues that there is no established definitive link between synthetic dyes and behavioral issues in children, but the agency continues to monitor emerging research. The 2021 assessment by the California Department of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment reviewed 27 clinical studies and concluded that food dyes could negatively affect the behavior of some children.
The proposed plan is expected to encourage reformulation efforts, particularly among food and beverage companies with portfolios focused on children and families. Details will be available following today’s announcement.
