The FDA is phasing out synthetic food dyes—here’s what it means for your family’s health

In a sweeping move that puts children’s well-being front and center, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced a prominent plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply. For parents who’ve long worried about mysterious color-coded ingredients in their child’s favorite snacks, this marks a long-overdue victory for transparency and health.

Why synthetic dyes are finally being banned

For decades, American families have unknowingly been consuming artificial dyes—FD&C Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1, to name a few—added to everything from cereals and candies to juices and baked goods. These synthetic additives, made from petrochemicals, offer no nutritional benefit and have been linked to a range of health concerns, especially in children. Think hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and even potential long-term impacts on development.

“Some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “That era is coming to an end.”

Related: Baked goods FDA recall: what you need to know about the 2 million products impacted

What’s happening now?

The FDA’s new measures are part of the Biden administration’s broader “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, and here’s what you need to know:

• Two dyes—Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B—will have their authorization revoked in the coming months.
• Six more widely used synthetic dyes (like Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5) will be eliminated by the end of next year.
• Natural alternatives such as butterfly pea flower extract and gardenia blue are being fast-tracked for approval.
• The deadline for phasing out Red No. 3 (found in candies and baked goods) has been moved up.
• The FDA is working with the NIH to deeply study the connection between additives and children’s health.

Why this matters for your kids

While European countries and Canada have already restricted or replaced synthetic dyes in many foods, the U.S. has lagged behind. That means American children have been exposed to additives banned elsewhere for safety reasons. The shift now underway acknowledges mounting research—and parental concern—about the role these dyes may play in the rise of childhood issues like obesity, depression, and ADHD.

As FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary stated, “Given the growing concerns of doctors and parents… we should not be taking risks.”

What parents can do right now

This policy shift is a game-changer, but food industry reform won’t happen overnight. In the meantime, there are steps you can take:

1. Read labels: Look out for ingredients labeled as “FD&C” followed by a color and number.
2. Choose natural options: Many brands now use fruit or vegetable-based colorings.
3. Make your voice heard: Continue advocating for clean ingredients by supporting brands and stores committed to transparency.
4. Model mindful eating: This is a great opportunity to talk to your kids about what’s in their food and why it matters.

A hopeful shift toward a healthier future

For many families, this announcement isn’t just about dyes—it’s about reclaiming trust in the food system. It’s about knowing that what we feed our children supports not only their bodies, but also their focus, energy, and emotional health.

This change signals that when parents speak up, when science is prioritized, and when the health of our littlest citizens is placed at the forefront, meaningful change is possible.

Let’s keep demanding better. Because our kids deserve nothing less.

Related: FDA sets new limits on lead in baby food—what parents need to know