Under RFK Jr's MAHA, More Food Dyes Are Getting Banned In US

Whether conservative and Republican Oklahoma or the liberal-leaning New York, they are all finally at the same page on health concerns. A growing number of the US States are moving to outlaw certain food dyes and chemical additives. Lawmakers cite concerns over public health, especially the effects of the dyes on children. The push has also gained bipartisan support as new research further highlights potential risks associated with artificial food coloring.

Currently, it is West Virginia which is leading the large with one of the most extensive bans. The proposed law prohibits the sale of food products that contain specific yellow, blue, green and red dyes. These artificial colors are usually used in candies, cakes, snacks and drinks. The proposed bill, which has passed in both the legislative chambers is not expected to be signed into law soon. It has the possibility to be one of the strictest regulations on food additives in the country.

What Are The Health Risks With Food Dyes?

Health advocates have long warned about the potential dangers of synthetic food dyes and studies too show that these additives can cause various health issues. These include:

• Neurobehavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity
• Possible carcinogenic effects in animal studies
• Other unknown long-term health impacts

Despite these concerns, many dyes remain approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), prompting state-level action.

However, the food industry has always opposed these bans, stating that there is insufficient evidence that proves that these dyes are harmful. Industry groups have also claimed that if these additives are restricted, it will drive up food costs and limit accessibility. The National Confectioners Association (NCA) represent candy manufacturers, who have voiced concerns about states making independent decision on food safety and banning the dyes. The NCA argues that the FDA should only have the authority over the additive regulations.

MAHA: Make America Healthy Again

Those who support the ban state that it is under the newly appointed Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr's MAHA tag or "Make America Healthy Again" that these are being banned. Kennedy too had been vocal about the potential risks of chemical additives and has pledged to scrutinize their presence in food supply.

In January it self, the FDA banned Red 3 Dye. It is a food colorant which was found to be associated with cancer in rodents. However, the agency stated that the decision was made due to legal obligations rather than a belief that it poses serious health risks. Critics have argued that FDA had been slow to respond to concerns about food additives which is why the states are now taking matter in their own hands.

ALSO READ: Will RFK Jr. Ban Other Food Colors After Red Dye No. 3?

Bans Across States

Virginia: Lawmakers approved a bill banning seven food dyes from public schools. The bill awaits the governor’s signature.

Oklahoma: On March 3, lawmakers advanced a measure banning 21 synthetic dyes and additives. The bill allows food companies until January 2027 to reformulate their products but requires warning labels in the meantime.

New York: A proposed law aims to ban synthetic dyes and chemical additives in public schools and prohibits statewide sales of Red 3 Dye and two other additives. It also demands transparency about “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) ingredients.

California: In 2023, the state banned Red 3 Dye and three other additives from all food products and expanded restrictions in September 2024 to include six dyes in public school meals.