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8h ago

FDA Eases 'No Artificial Colors' Labeling for Non‑Petroleum Dyes, OKs Beetroot Red and Spirulina Expansion

The agency is using enforcement discretion to accelerate a planned 2027 phase‑out of petroleum-based dyes by giving manufacturers clearer labeling flexibility.

FILE - Applications Scientist Anuj Bag mixes coloring with flour at Sensient Technologies Corp., a color additive manufacturing company, April 2, 2025, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)
U.S. Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration Dr. Martin A. Makary speaks during a press conference on the steps of the United States Department of Agriculture on July 14, 2025 in Washington, DC.
Spirulina powder is known for its nutrition and health benefits.
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Overview

  • Labels may state “no artificial colors” if products contain no petroleum-based certified dyes, even when colors from plant or other non-petroleum sources are used.
  • The policy excludes any petroleum-derived colors, and use of the new labeling flexibility is voluntary for manufacturers.
  • FDA approved beetroot red and broadened permitted uses of spirulina extract, bringing natural color approvals under the current administration to six.
  • The moves advance the goal of removing petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the U.S. food supply by January 2027, following last year’s ban of Red No. 3 and reviews of remaining dyes.
  • Consumer advocates warn the claim could mislead shoppers by covering non-petroleum additives such as titanium dioxide, while industry groups praised the change; the beetroot and spirulina actions stem from petitions by Phytolon and GNT.