A Bold Move by the FDA and HHS
Red 40 ban: A major health policy shift was announced on Tuesday, targeting harmful artificial food dyes like Red 40. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the U.S. will begin phasing out all petroleum-based synthetic food dyes.
This includes the widely used red dye No. 40, also known as Allura Red. The move is part of RFK Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda.
Red 40 and Other Food Dyes on the Chopping Block
Earlier this year, red dye No. 3 was banned. Now, the FDA will also target Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B in coming months. A full phase-out of the remaining six artificial dyes is expected by late 2026.
Red 40, approved in 1971, appears in sodas, cereals, candies, baked goods, and even medications. While long considered safe in limited amounts, growing research links it to health concerns — especially in kids.
Where Are These Food Dyes Found?
Synthetic dyes are everywhere. Popular products like:
- Skittles
- M&M’s
- Trix
- Lucky Charms
- Froot Loops
- Tylenol PM
- Children’s Tylenol
contain these dyes. They also appear in cough syrups, gummy vitamins, and allergy medications.
What Experts Say About the Health Risks
Many experts support the ban. A 2021 California report linked food dyes to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral issues in children. Some kids were more sensitive than others, but the effects were statistically significant in over half the studies reviewed.
While the FDA and European regulators set an “acceptable daily intake,” critics argue those limits don’t account for long-term or cumulative exposure — especially in children.
Toxicologists and nutritionists note that natural food dyes exist, like carotenes, curcumin, and paprika. But they’re more expensive, less stable, and often less vibrant.
Why This Matters Now
“There’s no nutritional benefit to synthetic dyes,” said Dr. Jamie Alan from Michigan State University. “Their only purpose is visual appeal and company profits.”
Supporters of the ban believe this is the first step in broader food reform. With benzene — a cancer-linked chemical — found in red 40, RFK Jr.’s decision aims to protect public health, especially children’s.
Source: Yahoo
