Since assuming the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has targeted food colorings, asserting their potential health risks. The Make America Healthy Again report highlights connections between certain dyes and behavioral issues in children. The HHS is moving to ban some synthetic dyes, aiming to replace them with natural alternatives.
Synthetic dyes, derived from petroleum, produce vibrant colors not typically found in nature. The shift to natural colorings began prior to the MAHA report, with many companies embracing organic options. Kraft removed artificial additives from its mac & cheese, and General Mills plans to eliminate them from school products this summer.
The FDA has approved four new color additives, Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract, calcium phosphate, and gardenia blue, and is working with the industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes by 2027, with states like California and Texas also committing to this transition. However, experts caution that natural colorings come with challenges and may not be inherently safer. While the FDA rigorously regulates synthetic dyes, natural colorings undergo a self-certification process, placing the onus on manufacturers for compliance, according to Paul Manning, CEO of Sensient Technologies.
Despite their natural origins, these colorings may still pose risks from contaminants. Natural sources can be treated with chemicals and processed in ways that may introduce harmful substances. Using natural colorings often requires more product to achieve the same hue, leading to potential inconsistencies. To ensure safety, Sensient has established Certasure, a certification program for natural food colorings that meets stringent safety standards. Manning notes that U.S. supply chains are not currently equipped to meet the demand for natural colors. Manufacturing hurdles include securing adequate natural dye sources, which can take years to cultivate. Many approved natural colorings are sourced internationally, complicating logistics amid rising global demand. Furthermore, achieving color consistency with natural dyes can impact sales, as consumers may perceive differences in flavor and appearance.
You can read the full article here.
