Kennedy to direct food manufacturers to phase out eight petroleum-based food dyes by 2026

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to direct food manufacturers to phase out eight petroleum-based food dyes from cereals, sports drinks, and other grocery staples by the end of 2026 .

Food industry experts estimate that the reformulation costs could reach into the billions , though many companies have already developed alternative formulations for their European and Canadian products.

The move is in line with President Trump ’s “ Make America Healthy Again ” initiative.