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5d ago

Mars Pushes Back on RFK Jr.’s Voluntary Food Dye Phase-Out

Candy maker Mars has refused to drop synthetic dyes without formal regulation, prompting calls for binding FDA action ahead of looming state bans.

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Overview

  • Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign urges major food companies to eliminate petroleum-based synthetic dyes from products by the end of 2027 to address health concerns.
  • Nestlé, ConAgra, Kraft Heinz, General Mills and PepsiCo have pledged to remove artificial colorants by 2026–27 under the non-binding federal initiative.
  • The FDA has banned Red Dye No. 3 effective January 15, 2027, and is moving to revoke approvals for other synthetic dyes while fast-tracking natural alternatives.
  • Texas, West Virginia and California have enacted laws requiring warning labels or banning various synthetic food dyes in products and school meals between 2027 and 2028.
  • Mars and the National Confectioners Association say they need formal regulation before reformulating, citing higher costs and limited availability of natural colorants.