FDA set to discontinue synthetic food colors, endorse four naturally sourced coloring agents instead
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FDA Taking Steps to Ditch Petroleum-Based Dyes in US Foods
In a move aimed at promoting child health and reducing synthetic chemical exposure, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to phase out the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in US food supply. Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary announced this decision on Tuesday, stating, "This is not a magic bullet, but it's an important step."
These dyes, prevalent in candies, cereals, beverages, and some medication, have long been a subject of debate due to potential health concerns. Makary emphasized that this transition would be executed in collaboration with, rather than against, the industry.
The Enviornmental Working Group reported that more than half of states have legislation in the works or rules in place to restrict food dyes due to health concerns. The industry, conversely, has advocated for a more consistent federal standard.
Questionable Dyes
Long-term use of synthetic dyes like Red No. 3 (Erythrosine), Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC), and Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine) have been linked to increased risk of cancer or tumors. Other dyes like Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine), and Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) may contain or be contaminated with known carcinogens.
Blue No. 1 and Yellow No. 6 may potentially harm some human cells, causing symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbances in sensitive children. Accumulation of these dyes over time remains uncertain.
Timeline
The FDA will first revoke the authorization of Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B within the upcoming weeks. The agency aims to have six synthetic dyes - Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, and Green No. 3 - eliminated by the end of next year.
In January, under the Biden administration, the FDA banned the use of Red dye No. 3 in ingested drugs, food, and beverages, urging companies to expedite compliance. The agency is currently pressuring food companies to move up the deadline for removing Red No. 3 from foods from the previous 2027-28 deadline.
Makary reiterated, "We have been running an uncontrolled scientific experiment on our children for the last 50 years without their consent. Today, we are getting rid of these petroleum-based chemicals from their food supply."
Natural Alternatives
To replace synthetic dyes, the FDA will authorize four new natural food color additives soon and fast-track reviews of natural alternatives such as calcium phosphate, Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract.
Consumer groups support this initiative but argue that relying on industry co-operation might prolong the process. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised the move, saying, "Nobody wants to eat petroleum."
Sources:
- Synthetic Food Dyes: Safety and Health Concerns
- Artificial Food Dyes and Childhood Behavior
- US Pledges Toxic-Free Candy by Phasing Out Artificial Food Dyes
- FDA to phase out food dyes used for decades after cancer concerns
- FDA releases plans to phase out artificial food dyes
- The food industry's reliance on petroleum-based synthetic dyes is a significant concern for child health and wellness.
- Synthetic food dyes, such as Red No. 3 and Red No. 40, are linked to increased risks of cancer or tumors.
- Other dyes like Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, and Blue No. 1 may potentially harm human cells and cause symptoms like restlessness and sleep disturbances.
- The accumulation of these dyes over time remains uncertain, but it's a cause for concern.
- The FDA plans to phase out the use of these petroleum-based synthetic dyes in US food supply, transitioning towards natural alternatives.
- The FDA aims to have six synthetic dyes eliminated by the end of next year, starting with Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B.
- The Biden administration has already banned the use of Red dye No. 3 in ingested drugs, food, and beverages.
- Companies are being urged to expedite compliance with the new regulations regarding Red No. 3.
- Four new natural food color additives will be authorized soon.
- The FDA is fast-tracking reviews of natural alternatives such as calcium phosphate, Galdieria extract blue, gardenia blue, and butterfly pea flower extract.
- Consumer groups support this initiative but concern over industry cooperation might prolong the process.
- HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised the move, saying, "Nobody wants to eat petroleum."
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