April 28, 2025
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced an agreement with major food makers to remove synthetic dyes from products by the end of 2026, though the specifics and realistic timing are unclear. Companies like PepsiCo have committed to offering natural color options, but the transition poses challenges. Developing and sourcing natural dyes, like those from red cabbage or beet juice, can take considerable time and effort, and adjustments to manufacturing processes and equipment are necessary as natural colors require specific conditions such as refrigeration, and may differ in viscosity from synthetic dyes.