U.S. regulators announced on Friday the approval of three new color additives derived from natural sources for use in food products across the nation. This decision follows health officials’ commitment to phase out petroleum-based dyes commonly found in various foods, including cereals and sports drinks.
The FDA has officially granted permission for the use of galdieria extract blue, a blue color sourced from algae; calcium phosphate, a naturally occurring white mineral; and butterfly pea flower extract, which comes from dried flower petals. These colors are set to be used in various foods, ranging from fruit drinks and yogurt to pretzels, ready-to-eat chicken, and candies. According to FDA officials, this move broadens the options available for manufacturers to safely incorporate natural colors into their products.
Health advocates have long pushed for removing artificial dyes, citing concerns about potential neurobehavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity. However, the FDA has historically maintained that existing approved dyes are safe and that most children are not adversely affected by consuming foods with these additives.
The recent approvals stem from petitions made by several companies: a 2021 request from Fermentalg for galdieria extract blue, a 2023 request from Innophos Inc. for calcium phosphate, and a 2024 request from Sensient Colors LLC for butterfly pea flower extract.
These approvals will be published in the federal register on May 12, with implementation expected in June. In April, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced plans to eliminate synthetic food dyes from the U.S. food supply by the end of 2026, largely relying on voluntary compliance from the food industry. They also indicated intentions to revoke approval for two less-used artificial dyes, Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, and to expedite the removal of Red 3, which has been linked to cancer in laboratory tests.
The FDA plans to begin the process of revoking these artificial colors in the coming months.
