In a meeting with major food executives, U.S. Health and Human Services secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. warned that artificial dyes should be removed from products, signaling an imminent shift in food regulations.
Julie Creswell and Christina Jewett report for The New York Times.
In short:
- Kennedy told leaders from PepsiCo, General Mills, and other major companies that eliminating synthetic food dyes is a priority for the Trump administration.
- He directed the FDA to revise the "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) policy, which has allowed companies to introduce additives without government oversight.
- Industry representatives expressed concern, while food safety advocates praised the move as a step toward greater transparency and health protections.
Key quote:
“Eliminating this loophole will provide transparency to consumers, help get our nation’s food supply back on track by ensuring that ingredients being introduced into foods are safe, and ultimately Make America Healthy Again.”
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Health and Human Services secretary
Why this matters:
Artificial dyes are widespread in processed foods, from cereals to candies, despite concerns over their health effects. Studies have linked some synthetic colorants to behavioral issues in children and potential carcinogenic risks. The FDA previously banned Red Dye No. 3, following California’s lead, but many other dyes remain in use. If Kennedy follows through, food companies may have to reformulate products nationwide. The move also challenges the GRAS system, which critics say allows untested chemicals into the food supply.
Related: Spotlight on cancer-causing food additive as advocates demand FDA ban Red Dye 3
