FDA says food companies can claim 'no artificial colors' if they use natural dyes
Summary
The FDA allows food companies to use 'no artificial colors' claims if their products use natural dyes instead of petroleum-based colors, marking an enforcement discretion shift. The piece notes beetroot red and spirulina extracts as new approved color options, while it also highlights ongoing concerns about safety, processing, and ultra-processing of natural colors. It concludes that color additives remain cosmetic and that natural colors do not guarantee safety or health benefits, with industry tracking of petroleum-based color removal.