Regulation
Federal and state rules on synthetic dyes, with dates and sources.
Regulation
What the FDA Food Dye Phase-Out Means for Small Food Brands
Which dye deadlines are binding, what natural colors cost, and a five-step reformulation plan for small and mid-size food brands.
Last checked October 31, 2026Regulation
End of 2026 or End of 2027? Why the Food Dye Phase-Out Date Changed
HHS and FDA announced an end-of-2026 target in April 2025. FDA's tracker now says end of 2027. Neither is a legal deadline; Red No. 3 and state laws are.
Last checked October 31, 2026Regulation
Food Dye Timeline: Every FDA Action on Synthetic Dyes, With Dates and Sources
Every FDA action on synthetic and natural food colors since January 2025, with the date, whether it is binding, and the primary source.
Last checked October 31, 2026Regulation
Red No. 3 in Supplements and Medicines: The 2027 and 2028 Deadlines
Dietary supplements follow the January 15, 2027 food deadline for Red 3. Ingested drugs have until January 18, 2028.
Last checked October 31, 2026Regulation
Ban vs. Voluntary Phase-Out: What FDA's Food Dye Plan Actually Requires
FDA has banned Red 3 but not the six petroleum-based dyes. For those, the binding dates come from state laws, school standards and retailers.
Last checked October 31, 2026