US Bans Artificial Dyes: Red Dye No. 40 And Others To Be Removed From Food Supply

In a major move towards healthier food options, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced a nationwide ban on all petroleum-based synthetic food dyes, including the widely used Red Dye No. 40. This decision is part of his larger goal to “Make America Healthy Again.”

The announcement was made on Tuesday, with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirming that these artificial dyes will be completely removed from the U.S. food supply by the end of 2026.

Why Is the US Bans Artificial Dyes ?

The decision to us ban artificial dyes follows growing concerns over their impact on health, especially in children. Though the FDA and other global agencies have said these dyes are safe in small amounts, recent studies have raised red flags.

One of the key dyes being removed is Red Dye No. 3, which had already been flagged by the FDA earlier this year. This dye is found in some foods and medications and has been under review for its possible health risks.

Now, with this new policy, the FDA plans to also phase out Red Dye No. 40, Citrus Red No. 2, and Orange B, along with other petroleum-based dyes, from all food and drug products.

What Is Red Dye No. 40?

Red Dye No. 40, also known as Allura Red, is one of the most common synthetic food colors used in the U.S. It’s made from petroleum and is used to give foods a bright red color. You’ll find it in products like sodas, candies, cereals, and even some baked goods.

Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, a toxicologist from MedStar Health, explained that while Red Dye No. 40 has been approved for use since 1971, its long-term effects are still being studied.

Is Red Dye No. 40 Safe?

According to the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority, Red Dye No. 40 is safe to consume as long as it’s within the acceptable daily intake (ADI).

Scott Keatley, a registered dietitian, says the ADI for Red Dye No. 40 is 7 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. So, someone who weighs 70 kg (about 154 pounds) could safely consume up to 490 milligrams a day.

However, even though it’s considered safe by these standards, some studies have shown potential risks, especially for children. That’s one reason why the U.S. has now decided to ban it.

What Do the Studies Say?

One of the biggest concerns about synthetic food dyes is their link to behavior problems in children.

A 2021 report from California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment found that artificial food colors can cause hyperactivity and attention issues. The report looked at studies where children were asked to avoid food dyes and then reintroduced to them. Many showed a clear change in behavior.

These findings have encouraged many parents and health experts to call for a ban, and now the U.S. government is finally taking action.

What Other Dyes Are Being Banned?

Along with Red Dye No. 40 and Red Dye No. 3, the ban will include:

Citrus Red No. 2
Orange B
Yellow Dye No. 5
Yellow Dye No. 6
Blue Dyes Nos. 1 and 2
Green Dye No. 3

These dyes are used not just in food, but also in medications and vitamins, especially those made for children.

What Are the Alternatives?

Some food companies have already started using natural food colors like turmeric (curcumin), beet juice, paprika, and carrot extract. These are seen as safer and more natural options.

However, experts say that natural dyes come with challenges — they may not be as bright, they’re more expensive, and they don’t last as long on store shelves.

Still, many consumers prefer natural ingredients and are happy to see the move away from synthetic dyes.

Which Products Contain Artificial Dyes?

Synthetic food dyes can be found in:

Candies like Skittles and M&M’s
Cereals like Froot Loops, Trix, and Lucky Charms
Snack foods like some Pop-Tarts
Medications like Children’s Tylenol and Tylenol PM
Gummy vitamins and cough syrups

What’s Next?

Food companies in the U.S. are being asked to start removing artificial dyes immediately, even though the deadline is still more than a year away. The goal is to protect public health and improve the quality of food, especially for children.

With this new policy, the U.S. bans artificial dyes that have long been debated by scientists, doctors, and parents. It’s a step toward a cleaner, safer food system — and a big win for health-conscious consumers.

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US Bans Artificial Dyes: Red Dye No. 40 and Others to Be Removed from Food Supply