FDA eases 'no artificial colors' labeling amid dye safety debate

The FDA announced it will allow food makers to label products as "no artificial colors" even if dyes are still used, effectively retreating from a plan to ban artificial colorants; critics warn such labeling could mislead consumers and leave dangerous additives like titanium dioxide in foods, while supporters say it advances the shift toward safer, naturally derived alternatives. The move comes amid pressure from the Kennedy-led Maha movement and ongoing state actions, with health groups urging a permanent dye ban and continued scrutiny of both synthetic and natural colorants.