FDA Approves Three New Natural Food Additives

For years, parents and watchdog groups have called for clearer regulations on what goes into children’s food. Now, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the FDA are taking action. In April, they announced plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes. The first step: approving three new natural color additives—Galdieria extract blue, calcium phosphate, and butterfly pea flower extract.

These new additives are derived from natural sources and will be used in a variety of food and beverage products. Galdieria extract blue, from red algae, will be used in beverages, dairy products, candies, and more. Butterfly pea flower extract, made from dried flower petals, will color items like cereals, snacks, and drinks. Calcium phosphate, a white color, will be used in chicken products and sugar-coated candies.

“On April 22, I said the FDA would soon approve several new color additives and would accelerate our review of others. I’m pleased to report that promises made, have been promises kept,” FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, MD, MPH, said in a press release. “FDA staff have been moving quickly to expedite the publication of these decisions, underscoring our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based dyes in the food supply and provide new colors from natural sources.”

What Other Changes May Be Ahead

Outside of approving new natural food dyes the FDA’s includes the following key intiatives:

• Establishing a national standard and timeline for the food industry to transition from petrochemical-based dyes to natural alternatives.
• Revoking approval for two synthetic dyes, Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, within the coming months.
• Phasing out six additional synthetic dyes: FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1 and FD&C Blue No. 2 by the end of next year.
• Enhancing research: The FDA will partner with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct comprehensive studies on how food additives may impact children’s health and development.
• Accelerating the removal of Red No. 3: Food companies are being asked to eliminate FD&C Red No. 3 sooner than the previously required 2027–2028 timeline.

Why The Ban Matters for Families and Young Children

For parents, the ban addresses growing concerns about the safety of artificial dyes in foods that children commonly consume. Advocacy groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Consumer Reports, and several lawmakers have raised alarms about the potential risks of synthetic dyes—ranging from behavioral impacts to carcinogenic concerns—especially for young children, who consume more dye relative to their body weight than adults.

“We have a new epidemic of childhood diabetes, obesity, depression, and ADHD. Given the growing concerns of doctors and parents about the potential role of petroleum-based food dyes, we should not be taking risks and do everything possible to safeguard the health of our children," Makary said.

The new plan builds on recent efforts at both the national and state level to limit artificial dyes in foods. Earlier this year, the FDA banned Red Dye No. 3 in foods, candy and more, citing health concerns. Just months before, California passed new legislation restricting certain dyes in school lunches. While more research is underway, these changes mean families will likely see fewer artificial dyes on grocery store shelves in the years ahead.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.