70 JULY / AUGUST 2025 ABASTO.COM By Hernando Ramírez-Santos T he U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved three new natural food colors this week, marking a historic step in the government’s push to eliminate petro- leum-derived synthetic dyes from the national food supply. The FDA's measures prompted different reactions from industry representatives. The Consumer Brands Association, the National Confectioners Association, and the American Bakers Association acknowledged the FDA's initiative but asked that decisions remain based on science and objective risk assessment. “This is a major step to Make America Healthy Again,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing long-standing concerns about the health risks of synthetic dyes. “We’re removing these dyes and approving safe, natural alternatives—to protect families and support healthier choices.” Industry Voices Support and Concern Melissa Hockstad, CEO of the Consumer Brands Association, reiterated the indus- try’s focus on product safety. “Removing these safe ingredients does not change our commitment to providing safe, affordable choices. However, we urge FDA to main- tain a rigorous, peer-reviewed process.” The National Confectioners Association echoed that sentiment. “FDA F D A A P P R O V E S N A T U R A L F O O D C O L O R S , P H A S E S O U T P E T R O L E U M - B A S E D D Y E S and regulators globally have deemed these ingredients safe,” the organiza- tion said. “We support a science-based process that rebuilds consumer trust.” Rasma Zvaners of the American Bakers Association emphasized ongoing cooperation. “We remain steadfast in our collaboration with FDA to uphold the highest standards of food safety,” she said. New Colors Signal a Market Shift Food manufacturers are already adjus- ting. Since the announcement last month, many brands have committed to removing petroleum-based dyes within the FDA’s timeline. With more natural alternatives in the pipeline, experts expect a rapid transformation in how foods are colo- red, especially in children’s snacks and beverages. The FDA says four more natu- ral food colors may be approved in the coming weeks. As pressure mounts from health advocates and state legislatures, this federal move centralizes food safety regulation—an effort many in the industry have long requested to prevent a patchwork of state laws. The FDA’s decision not only resha- pes food labeling and formulation but also marks a cultural shift toward transparency and long-term health. By eliminating synthetic dyes and fast-tracking natural alternatives, the agency signals a new era for American food safety. FOOD INDUSTRY FDA Takes Action Against Petroleum-Based Dyes As part of the FDA’s broader initiative, the agency will: Revoke the use of Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B in coming months. Eliminate the remaining six synthetic colors—including Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5—by the end of next year. Launch new research with the National Institutes of Health on the effects of food additives on children. FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin A. Makary said the agency has kept its promise to act swiftly. “FDA staff have been moving quickly to expe- dite these decisions, underscoring our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based dyes,” he said. Three Natural Food Colors Approved The FDA approved color additive petitions from three companies: Galdieria extract blue, derived from red algae, approved for use in beverages, yogurts, frozen desserts, and candies. Submitted by French biotech firm Fermentalg. Butterfly pea flower extract, expan- ding its use in cereals, chips, and snack mixes. Petition filed by Missouri-based Sensient Colors LLC. Calcium phosphate, a white color for ready-to-eat chicken, doughnut sugar, and candy coatings. Petition submitted by Innophos Inc. of New Jersey. Once approved, these additives are open to use by any manufacturer, broadening the availability of natural food colors across multiple product categories.