US Plans Nationwide Ban on Synthetic Food Dyes

The Trump administration, led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, is preparing to announce a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes nationwide. This follows the recent FDA ban of Red Dye No. 3 due to cancer risks and responds to concerns about possible links between artificial dyes and behavioral or neurological problems in children, although the FDA has not confirmed these connections. The targeted dyes are mainly found in products marketed to children, such as candy, cereals, and sodas, and have already been restricted in other countries. Kennedy has supported similar bans at the state level, with West Virginia recently enacting a comprehensive prohibition and over 20 states considering similar measures. Nutrition experts and advocacy groups emphasize that these dyes are used primarily for cosmetic purposes and are not essential for food quality. More details will be provided at an upcoming HHS press conference.