Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will announce plans Tuesday to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes, targeting color additives found in candy, cereals, and snacks. The effort, part of his “Make America Healthy Again” campaign, aims to eliminate dyes like Red No. 3 and Yellow No. 5, which have been linked to behavioral issues in children.
The move comes amid mounting pressure on the FDA to reassess long-approved food chemicals and follows a recent California law banning certain additives. Industry groups have warned that phasing out dyes could take time, while Kennedy has pushed for quick action.
Kennedy’s announcement will be made alongside FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. Some nutrition experts support the move but warn that broader health issues like tobacco and alcohol use also need attention.
