Hi everyone,
I wanted to share some important news that affects many of us who bake. The FDA and Department of Health and Human Services recently announced they’re planning to phase out all artificial, petroleum-based food dyes by the end of 2026.
Which Dyes Are Being Phased Out?
The plan targets these synthetic dyes:
- Red 3 (Erythrosine)
- Red 40 (Allura Red AC)
- Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
- Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF)
- Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF)
- Blue 2 (Indigotine)
- Green 3 (Fast Green FCF)
- Citrus Red 2
- Orange B
You’ve probably seen these in many products like candies, cereals, baked goods, and sodas.
Timeline
- The FDA has already banned Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B
- All artificial, petroleum-based food dyes must be phased out by the end of 2026
- By January 2027, Red Dye No. 3 must be completely removed from products
Natural Alternatives for Baking
If you’re looking to adapt your baking, here are some natural coloring brands that work well:
- TruColor: Plant-based powders that work well in buttercream and royal icing
- India Tree (Nature’s Colors): Vegetable-based colorings for icings and frostings
- ColorKitchen: Plant-based colors and sprinkles without artificial dyes
- Color Garden: Single-use packets of natural food coloring
- Supernatural: Concentrated plant extract colorings
- Chefmaster Natural: Plant-based coloring options
- Watkins: Colorings from vegetable juices and spices like beet juice and turmeric
- 365 Everyday Value: Natural options available at Whole Foods
- Suncore Foods: Plant-based powders in various colors
- Natural Candy Store: Various natural coloring products including gels and liquids
Tips When Using Natural Colors
- Natural dyes usually give softer colors than artificial ones
- Some natural colorants add subtle flavors – turmeric tastes earthy, beet juice is slightly sweet
- Natural colors can be affected by heat and acidity, so test small batches first
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Take care, Marcia Marcia’s Munchies NJ
