FDA to Phase Out Synthetic Food Dyes in Major Health Move

In a landmark announcement, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary unveiled a bold initiative by the Trump administration to eliminate petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from the U.S. food and pharmaceutical supply. The effort aims to address what Makary called an “underlying root cause” of rising chronic health problems in children.

“For the last 50 years, American children have increasingly lived in a toxic soup of synthetic chemicals,” Makary said. “Studies show strong links between petroleum-based dyes and ADHD, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and even genomic disruption.”

Food Dyes Linked to Hyperactivity and Chronic Disease

Makary pointed to a well-known Lancet study that used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled approach. The study concluded that artificial colors in food “result in increased hyperactivity” in children.

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“These concerns aren’t new,” he said. “Parents have long reported behavioral changes tied to these dyes. In many cases, hyperactivity subsides when the dyes are removed—and returns when they are reintroduced.”

Drawing from his medical experience, Makary stressed: “Always listen to the mom.”

He also noted that some artificial dyes make processed food more visually appealing to children—even when they’re already full. “That manipulation contributes directly to overeating, obesity, and diabetes,” he said.

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The problem is widespread. Today, 41% of American children have at least one chronic health condition. One in five are on prescription medication.

Makary rejected the idea that more drugs are the only answer. “There’s a role for Ozempic, ADHD meds, and antidepressants,” he said. “But we must also address root causes.”

FDA’s Three-Part Plan

Makary laid out the FDA’s three key steps:

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1. Create a national timeline for transitioning away from petroleum-based dyes to natural alternatives.

2. Revoke authorization for unused dyes such as citrus red #2 and orange B.

3. Eliminate the six synthetic dyes still in use:

   • Red 40

   • Yellow 5

   • Yellow 6

   • Blue 1

   • Blue 2

   • Green 3

Makary acknowledged that this alone won’t solve every health issue. “This isn’t a silver bullet,” he said. “But it’s one important step.”

He called on regulators and the food industry to act boldly. “This administration refuses to keep doing the same things while our kids keep getting sicker.”

Thirty states have already introduced bills to regulate synthetic dyes. The FDA’s action offers a unified national standard and removes confusion for food companies.

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“Cancer and diabetes are rising fast in young people,” Makary concluded. “We need to look at chemicals and toxins—not just prescribe more insulin or chemotherapy.”