U.S. Phases Out Harmful Food Dyes Due To Health Risks!

U.S. to Phase Out Petroleum-Based Food Dyes by 2026

In a significant move for public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced plans to eliminate all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply by the end of 2026. 

This initiative targets eight commonly used dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. These dyes are commonly found in products such as lollies, cereals, and beverages.

Health Concerns

Research has linked synthetic food dyes to various health issues, particularly in children. A comprehensive review by California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) found that these dyes can exacerbate neurobehavioral problems, such as hyperactivity and attention deficits, in some children. 

Moreover, certain dyes like Red 3 have been associated with cancer risks in animal studies, leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory actions.

Implications for Australia

While the U.S. moves toward eliminating these dyes, many of them remain in Australian food products, including those marketed to children. This disparity underscores the need for heightened awareness and advocacy for safer food standards locally.

What You Can Do

• Read Labels: Look out for synthetic dyes listed as Red 40, Yellow 5, etc.
• Choose Natural Alternatives: Opt for products coloured with natural ingredients, such as beet juice or turmeric.
• Support Change: Advocate for stricter regulations on artificial additives in Australia.

For a deeper dive into the health effects of synthetic food dyes, refer to the OEHHA’s detailed report: