Robert F Kennedy Jr has been a longtime critic of synthetic additives. He has, from time and again emphasized that Americans are consuming artificial chemicals without their knowledge or consent. "Four years from now, we are going to have most of these products off the market - or clearly labeled so you know what you are buying," he stated during a press briefing. Now, a major announcement was made on Tuesday by the Trump administration on its plan to phase out petroleum-based artificial food dyes from the US food supply. The Trump administration and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), headed by Robert F Kennedy Jr., described this as a "significant milestone". The initiative is part of the broader health campaign which is branded "Make America Healthy Again". The move is set to initiate a nationwide transition toward natural color alternatives in food production. The National StandardThe HHS, in collaboration with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said that they will establish a national standard to help the food industry move away from synthetic petrochemical dyes. This also is said to include a timeline, which will be set to replace these dyes with safer, plant-based or naturally derived alternatives. The Dyes That Could Be AffectedThe first major regulatory action under this plan involves revoking authorization of two dyes, namely Citrus Red No.2 and Orange B. The officials have also selected six more synthetic dyes to be eliminated by the end of 2026. These include FD&C Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, and Green No. 3.The FDA is also planning to approve four new natural color additives shortly after a review of the additional alternatives. FDA Commissioner Martin Makary said that for decades, American children have been "living in a toxic soup of synthetic chemicals." The administration's latest steps, he noted, are a strong move towards the elimination of petroleum-based food dyes. Are Food Dyes Safe For Us?As of now, the FDA defines food dyes or color additives as any substance that imparts color to food, drugs, cosmetics, or the human body. These dyes are commonly used to enhance visual appeal and to help consumers identify flavors. While FDA guidelines state that color additives are generally safe when used correctly, there is growing concern. Some studies have linked artificial dyes to behavioral issues in children, including hyperactivity. Kennedy remarked that there are “shockingly few studies” on many of the ingredients in widespread use, calling for more thorough research.To that end, the administration announced a partnership with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate the impact of food dyes and additives on children's development and health.What Has Been The Response?The plan, as of now, does not impose immediate legal restrictions. The government, however, is working closely with food manufacturers to implement the changes. Kennedy reported a positive response from industry leaders and said there is a general "understanding" of the need for reform, even if no formal agreements are in place. Consumer and advocacy groups have praised the announcement. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) called the move “long overdue,” citing decades of evidence linking synthetic dyes to health issues. States like California and West Virginia have already passed laws restricting the use of artificial dyes in school meals and packaged foods.However, not everyone is on board. The Consumer Brands Association, representing food and beverage companies, warned against removing what they consider safe, FDA-approved ingredients. While expressing appreciation for federal leadership, the group insisted that science and product safety must not be compromised.