On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a landmark decision: all petroleum-based synthetic dyes will be phased out of U.S. food and pharmaceutical supply by the end of 2026. The industry-wide shift will see a transition to natural alternatives.

The following dyes are set to be removed:

• FD&C Blue Nos. 1 and 2
• FD&C Green No. 3
• FD&C Red Nos. 3* and 40
• FD&C Yellow Nos. 5 and 6

What Happens Next?

Although the measure has not yet been formally enacted into law, the two agencies pledge to work with the industry to achieve their objective. Once enacted, pharmaceutical, food, and beverage manufacturers will be required to transition to approved nature-derived alternatives by end of 2026.

To support this shift, four new natural color additives are being fast-tracked for FDA approval, with more under accelerated review.

We’re Ahead of the Curve

At Chefmaster, we’ve been preparing for this transition for years. We have been a pioneer in investing into natural dyes and our high-performance line of quality natural food colorings is already trusted by everyone from home bakers to professional pastry chefs, and food manufacturers alike.

Our R&D team is continuing to develop next generation of nature-derived color solutions, and we’re excited to announce the upcoming expansion of our natural product offerings—both in retail and commercial categories.

To our food manufacturing and commercial partners: you can count on us to continue as your trusted color partner. Chefmaster has nearly 90 years of expertise in quality custom color solutions, including high-concentration natural alternatives tailored for your manufacturing needs. We are fully equipped to support your formulation goals and ensure regulatory compliance every step of the way.

To our loyal retail consumers: This is an ever-changing regulatory environment. It is too early to know when your favorite synthetic-dye food colors will no longer be authorized for online and retail sales, but we will make sure to let you know when the time comes so you have plenty of time to prepare. You can also count on us to continue providing you with tips and educational resources to navigate this transition.

Together, we’ll proudly continue to bring vibrant color to treats, traditions, and celebrations everywhere.

*FDA revocation of the authorization to use FD&C Red 3 dye in food and beverage starting January 1^st, 2027 was previously announced in January 2025.