The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced new measures aimed at accelerating the shift in the U.S. food supply away from petroleum-based artificial colors toward naturally derived alternatives. Under the updated approach, companies can now label products as containing “no artificial colors” if they do not include petroleum-based color additives.
Previously, such claims were generally only permitted when products contained no added colors at all, regardless of whether those colors were natural or synthetic. This policy shift provides companies with greater flexibility and is supported by an FDA notice indicating it will exercise enforcement discretion regarding these voluntary labeling claims.
According to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, the move marks meaningful progress. He noted that it simplifies the transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes while encouraging the adoption of safer, naturally sourced alternatives, aligning with broader public health goals.
In addition, the FDA approved two petitions related to food coloring. The agency authorized beetroot red as a new color additive and expanded the approved uses of spirulina extract, an existing natural colorant. These approvals further support industry efforts to replace petroleum-based dyes. With these additions, the current administration has approved a total of six new food color options.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary explained that labeling naturally derived colors as “artificial” has long created confusion for consumers and discouraged innovation. The updated policy removes this barrier, making it easier for companies to incorporate natural color alternatives into everyday food products.
These developments build on earlier initiatives led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the FDA. In April 2025, both agencies introduced a series of actions to encourage the gradual elimination of petroleum-based synthetic colors from the national food supply—an important step in a broader effort to improve public health outcomes. The FDA continues to publicly track industry commitments to remove such dyes.
Kyle Diamantas, Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, emphasized that the agency is working to speed up approvals for alternative color sources while giving companies more pathways to transition away from synthetic options.
At the same time, the FDA reiterated that manufacturers remain responsible for ensuring the safety of all color additives. The agency has issued guidance and resources to help companies maintain high standards of safety and purity as they adopt new ingredients.
As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the FDA plays a central role in protecting public health by ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of food, drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and other regulated products across the United States.
