And FD&C Colors

FD&C Colors are a group of synthetic color additives used in food products. They are manufactured chemically, often derived from petroleum, to provide specific hues.

Manufacturers add FD&C Colors to enhance the visual appeal of foods, restore color lost during processing, and ensure color consistency. They are commonly found in candies, beverages, baked goods, and snack foods.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves specific FD&C colors for use in food. Some artificial colors, including those covered by the 'FD&C Colors' term, have been a subject of controversy regarding their potential link to hyperactivity in some children; scientific evidence on this topic is mixed. The FDA revoked the approval for Red 3 for use in food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out other petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. European authorities, such as EFSA, have also evaluated these colors, and some have been linked to hyperactivity concerns in Europe.