The promising effects of food dye changes

Fruit loops are colorful. In fact, they have an abundance of colors. In the same way some candy is so red a sports car could take lessons. For example, a handful of Skittles. Or a bag of M&M’s. The mental image that springs to mind is a colorful one. And also starts at least one craving. (must have m&m’s) Is it possible there is more than the candy creating all that appeal?

It’s difficult to think about M&M’s without thinking about chocolate. Similarly, when craving a bag of Skittles, it usually involves all those crazy fruit flavors. The bright colors of the M&M’s, or the vibrant hue of the Skittle, only enhances the candy’s appeal. And what about ketchup? Anyone who enjoys a splotch of ketchup on a plate knows the ketchup is ultra red. In fact, it is so red the plate looks like it has rosy cheeks.

With this in mind, a trip down any aisle in the grocery store reveals a myriad of colorful containers and bags. Indeed, most are colorful pictures of the food inside the container. Intensely yellow mustard is an excellent example of a vibrant color. In fact, it’s interesting to think the color may change soon. Furthermore the color may change, but the taste will stay the same.

The Promising Effects of Food Dye Changes

On April 22, 2025 the FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced the full phase out of petroleum based food dyes by the end of 2026. Furthermore a national standard, and timeline, will be established to help the transition from petroleum based food dyes, to natural alternatives.

This is a landmark decision, and it goes a long way towards detoxifying the American food supply. In fact, the phase out of the synthetic dyes will target the top six dyes. Which are:

• FD&C Green No. 3, or Green 3
• FD&C Red No. 40, or Red 40
• FD&C Yellow No. 5, or Yellow 5
• FD&C Yellow No. 6, or Yellow 6
• FD&C Blue No. 1, or Blue 1
• FD&C Blue No. 2, or Blue 2

This begins the phase out. Furthermore, there will be more in the following year. Although those details are still unclear. However, one thing is clear. The administration intends to take action, and the sooner the better.

Finding Solutions

Citing a rising trend of cancer and diabetes in young people, Commissioner Makary believes more focus should be on underlying causes. For example, common chemicals, and toxins. Furthermore it will be a welcome change to have natural ingredients return to the food supply.

With this in mind, it will be interesting to see the additional changes and adjustments in the coming months. Healthier eating choices are just the beginning of the benefits. Likewise, it might be years before the effects of some of these changes are seen. However, it is a positive step in the right direction.

Furthermore, it is on a fast track for completion by the end of 2026. These changes and others can be found on the FDA’s website, or by clicking here. Once on the site, search for Phasing out petroleum-based synthetic dyes. The information from more than a few recent announcements is also available. Thanks for reading today.

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