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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three new colour additives derived from natural sources, expanding options for food manufacturers and furthering efforts to eliminate petroleum-based dyes from the US food supply.

The decision is part of a broader initiative led by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reduce synthetic ingredients in the food supply. HHS secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has made phasing out petroleum-based dyes a priority under the administration’s 'Make America Healthy Again' campaign, which aims to address longstanding health concerns linked to artificial additives.

The newly approved colourants include Galdieria extract blue, a colour derived from the red algae Galdieria sulphuraria. The extract, petitioned by French company Fermentalg, has been approved for use in a wide range of products including beverages, dairy drinks, ice creams, candies, breakfast cereals, frozen desserts, yogurt, flavoured milks and both dairy and non-dairy toppings.

Another colorant, butterfly pea flower extract, has already been permitted in products like sports drinks, teas and candy. Following a petition from Sensient Colors, the FDA has now expanded its approved use to include ready-to-eat cereals, crackers, snack mixes, pretzels and various types of chips.

The third additive is calcium phosphate, a white colouring that can now be used in ready-to-eat chicken products, white candy melts, doughnut sugar and sugar coatings for candies. This petition was submitted by US chemical manufacturer Innophos.

HHS secretary Kennedy said: “Today we take a major step to Make America Healthy Again. For too long, our food system has relied on synthetic, petroleum-based dyes that offer no nutritional value and pose unnecessary health risks. We’re removing these dyes and approving safe, natural alternatives – to protect families and support healthier choices.”

FDA commissioner Martin A Makary, added: “FDA staff have been moving quickly to expedite the publication of these decisions, underscoring our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based dyes in the food supply and provide new colors from natural sources.”

Under US law, colour additives must undergo FDA review and approval before being used in food. The agency evaluates safety based on toxicological data, estimated dietary exposure and scientific literature. Once approved, any manufacturer may use the additives within the specified guidelines.