The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved three natural food colorings for manufacturers to use. These include Gardilia Extract Blue, Butterfly Pea Flower Extract, and Calcium Phosphate.
FDA Commissioner Martin McCurry expressed satisfaction regarding this development, indicating that the agency’s commitments are being fulfilled.
Notably, just last month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) alongside the FDA imposed a ban on synthetic oil-based dyes in food products due to health concerns.
McCurry remarked that FDA staff are rapidly pushing these decisions forward, emphasizing a serious commitment to phase out petroleum-based dyes and promote natural color alternatives.
The Gardilia Extract Blue comes from a single-cell red alga known as Gardiria sulfur, while the Butterfly Pea Flower Extract is derived from dried flower petals and can produce blue, green, and purple hues. This dye has been extended to snacks, cereals, and candies, enhancing the options available in the market.
Calcium Phosphate, characterized by its white color, has now been approved for use in chicken products and various types of confectionery.
During a recent appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlighted the food industry’s proactive response in collaborating with federal authorities like the FDA.
He noted that the industry is engaging in discussions to ensure these changes are taken seriously.
Vani Hari, a prominent figure in the food industry, mentioned that the FDA’s swift action is unprecedented. She emphasized that with these new guidelines, the industry has no justification for not transitioning to more natural ingredients.
She pointed out that oil-based dyes pose various health risks, making it essential to rely on safer, naturally sourced options that are already in use internationally.
Adding to the conversation, Courtney Swan, a certified nutritionist, remarked that natural plant extracts should be the norm, as they come with fewer risks compared to synthetic dyes.
In a related announcement, Tyson Foods stated it plans to eliminate petroleum-based synthetic dyes from its products by the end of May.
