Food Dyes Banned?

It was just announced that the FDA will be phasing out eight petroleum-based food dyes by next year. Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B are going to have their authorizations pulled in the next few weeks  while the FDA is asking for voluntary cooperation in removing Green No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, and Blue No. 2 from the food supply. 

This js something that Europe has already had in place for a while now and really the only shocking thing is that there was petroleum in the food supply at all. Especially because many of these substances have been linked to cancer (in animals) and major behavioral issues in children. 

That said, some have voiced concerns about the “voluntary compliance” side of the plan and have expressed skepticism about the follow-though. 

Fortunately, the changes have already been seen on store shelves as some companies have been getting out ahead of the regulations and putting naturally colored products. 

Regardless it’s one of the few things that everyone can agree on and it’s certainly a step in the right direction. 

Do you think that petroleum based food dyes will actually be removed?