RFK Jr. and FDA’s Makary take aim at synthetic FOOD DYES to clean up America’s food supply

04/25/2025 / By Ava Grace

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary are proposing a plan to phase out eight petroleum-based synthetic dyes (e.g., Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5) from the U.S. food supply by 2026, citing potential health risks.
The plan includes voluntary removal of common dyes and mandates bans on rarely used ones (Citrus Red No. 2, Orange B), while accelerating the elimination of Red No. 3 due to cancer risks in animal studies.
Synthetic dyes, though FDA-approved for decades, face scrutiny over links to hyperactivity and cognitive issues in children. Europe has stricter regulations while U.S. states like California are enacting their own bans.
Food manufacturers argue dyes are safe, but some states (e.g., Iowa, California) have already restricted them in schools. Critics question whether voluntary compliance will be effective without federal enforcement.
While human health risks remain debated, the FDA will approve natural alternatives and fund further research. The initiative reflects growing consumer demand for cleaner labels, though its success depends on industry cooperation.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is making waves with a sweeping initiative to remove petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the U.S. food supply, in tandem with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary.

Set to be announced on April 30, the plan targets eight artificial colorants found in everyday products like sodas, candies and cereals. This move follows years of mounting scrutiny over potential health risks, particularly for children, and builds on state-level bans already in motion. But with the food industry pushing back and scientists divided on the evidence, the battle over synthetic dyes is far from settled.

Kennedy’s proposal seeks to phase out eight synthetic dyes – including Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5 and Blue No. 1 – by the end of 2026. These additives, derived from petroleum, have been FDA-approved for decades but face growing skepticism over links to behavioral issues and chronic diseases. The plan relies on voluntary cooperation from food manufacturers, a strategy critics argue lacks teeth. (Related: Study: Nanoparticles in common food coloring and anti-caking agents may harm gut health.)

The FDA will also begin the process of banning two rarely used dyes – Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B. Moreover, it will fast-track the removal of Red No. 3, a controversial dye already slated for elimination due to cancer risks in animal studies.

Synthetic dyes have been a staple in processed foods since the mid-20th century, prized for their vibrant hues and low cost. But concerns over their safety are not new.

In 2021, the California Environmental Protection Agency reviewed studies linking synthetic dyes to hyperactivity and cognitive problems in children. Meanwhile, watchdog groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) have long argued that these additives should carry warning labels—or be banned outright.

Europe has taken a stricter approach, requiring labels on foods containing certain dyes and banning others entirely. The U.S., however, has lagged behind — until now.

Industry resistance and state-level action

Food manufacturers insist synthetic dyes are safe, citing decades of FDA approval. Melissa Hockstad of the Consumer Brands Association defended the industry, stating that ingredients undergo rigorous testing. Yet, even she acknowledged the growing demand for natural alternatives.

The lack of a federal mandate has led to a patchwork of state laws. Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts and West Virginia have already banned synthetic dyes from school meals, with California set to follow in 2028. Kennedy’s plan aims to standardize these efforts, but skeptics question whether voluntary compliance will be enough.

While some studies suggest synthetic dyes contribute to ADHD and other conditions, the scientific consensus remains murky. Dr. Darien Sutton, an ABC News medical correspondent, noted that while animal studies show potential risks, human evidence is less clear. Still, with childhood obesity, diabetes and behavioral disorders on the rise, Kennedy and Makary argue that removing questionable additives is a necessary precaution.

“Why are we taking a gamble? The answer is not more Ozempic or ADHD medication. We have to look at root causes,” Makary remarked during a press conference Tuesday, April 22.

Visit FoodScience.news for more similar stories.

Watch Health Secretary RFK Jr. discussing the chemicals in American food and the dangers they cause.

This video is from The 100% Clean Food Lifestyle channel on Brighteon.com.