Food dyes have been making headlines—and for good reason. Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved three new food colorants made from natural sources, marking a significant shift in how food gets its color. And Atlantans are paying attention: 42% of Atlanta adults surveyed said they had heard about the new approvals in just the past week.
Why Food Dyes Matter
Color additives are widely used to make food look more appealing—but not all dyes are created equal. Natural dyes are generally considered safer alternatives to synthetic dyes, which are often derived from petroleum and have been linked to health concerns including potential cancer risk and allergic reactions.
While more research is needed on natural alternatives, the FDA is actively phasing out artificial dyes in favor of natural options.
What’s Changing?
Of the nine synthetic food dyes previously approved for use in the U.S., three have been pulled from shelves:
- ❌ Red No. 3 was banned in January 2025
- ❌ Citrus Red 2 and Orange B were revoked in April 2025
The remaining six synthetic dyes will be phased out by 2027. To replace them, the FDA has approved the following natural food colorants:
✅ Calcium Phosphate – A white dye used in chicken products, donut sugars, and candy coatings
✅ Galdieria Extract Blue – A blue color made from red algae, used in beverages, frozen desserts, candies, and yogurt drinks
✅ Butterfly Pea Flower Extract – A vibrant plant-based dye for cereals, chips, and dairy products
Who’s Most Aware of These Changes?
According to a recent survey of 500 adults in Georgia, Missouri, Mississippi, and North Carolina:
- Awareness is highest in Georgia (42%), and lowest in Missouri (28%)
- Black adults (40%) were significantly more aware than White adults (23%)
- Parents with children under 18 were more informed (38%) than adults without children (28%)
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re concerned about the health risks of artificial food dyes, start reading food labels and looking for products with natural ingredients. Keep in mind:
- Natural dyes are often less vibrant
- They may react to cooking or light exposure
- Shorter shelf life could mean higher prices or more food waste
Let’s Keep Atlanta Informed
The shift to natural dyes is a step toward better food safety and transparency—but it starts with awareness. Help spread the word:
📢 Share this article with your community
🧾 Stay informed by checking food labels
💬 Talk to your family and friends about healthier food options
About This Report
This update is based on a survey conducted June 7–9, 2025, among 500 adults in Atlanta, GA (n=79); St. Louis, MO (n=196); North Carolina (n=65); and Mississippi (n=160). Learn more and explore the data at iHeard Atlanta.
