Overview

• The dye, approved in 1966 for sausage casings, has had no certified batches or requests since 1978, according to the FDA.
• The rule change will undergo a brief public comment period and could take effect within about 45 days.
• Consumer advocates describe the step as largely symbolic because Orange B has not been used in the food supply for decades.
• The action follows January’s federal ban on Red No. 3, which the FDA targeted over cancer concerns from animal studies.
• Six widely used dyes are under FDA review as health leaders push reductions in petroleum-based colorants and the agency says most children show no adverse effects from approved additives.