West Virginia bans artificial food dyes, preservatives

West Virginia has become the first state to implement a comprehensive ban on several artificial food dyes and preservatives, effective January 2028, following the passage of House Bill 2354. The banned substances include Red No. 3 and 40, Yellow No. 5 and 6, Blue No. 1 and 2, Green No. 3, and the preservatives butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and propylparaben. Proponents argue that the ban aims to improve public health, particularly among children, amid concerns linking these additives to behavioral issues and potential carcinogenic effects. Critics, however, worry that the legislation may lead to increased food prices and consumer dissatisfaction, as seen in past cases when companies reverted to artificial dyes. The bill has sparked a wider discussion on food safety, with at least 11 other states considering similar measures. This legislative move aligns with ongoing trends in the food industry towards natural alternatives, as major brands begin to reformulate products in response to changing consumer preferences.