The FDA has given its approval for a natural blue color extracted from the fruit of the gardenia plant, while also urging the food industry to accelerate the phasing out of Red No. 3 from their products.
Gardenia blue is now the fourth natural ingredient to receive FDA approval since the agency called on the food industry in April to voluntarily eliminate petroleum-based artificial dyes before the end of 2026.
The FDA has given the green light for the blue color derived from the flowering evergreen to be used in various products including sports drinks, flavored water, fruit drinks, teas, and candies.
At the same time, the FDA is pushing for the removal of Red No. 3 well before the 2027 deadline set by the Biden administration.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary emphasized the agency’s commitment to transitioning away from synthetic dyes and providing food manufacturers with a range of natural color options.
The FDA has previously approved two other natural blue colors, along with calcium phosphate for use as a white color in coated candies.
Approximately 40% of the food industry has pledged to phase out synthetic dyes voluntarily, including major companies like J.M. Smucker, Conagra Brands, General Mills, Kraft Heinz, and Nestlé.
Consumer demand for natural options and concerns about the health effects of synthetic dyes have been driving the move towards eliminating artificial colors from food products.
The FDA’s actions align with efforts at the state level, with West Virginia banning certain additives and colors in food products, and Texas mandating warning labels on products containing synthetic dyes starting in 2027.