Senators Support Move to Eliminate Artificial Dyes
A U.S. Senator from Alabama has commended federal officials as they work towards removing certain artificial dyes from the American food supply.
Health and Human Services (HHS) Director Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alongside Dr. Marty McCurry from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), announced on Tuesday that they plan to phase out certain food dyes under the “American Health” initiative.
“We’re committed to eliminating every ingredient and additive we can legally address,” Kennedy emphasized.
Although this won’t constitute a total legal ban, the HHS and FDA intend to collaborate with the food industry to voluntarily phase out these dyes.
“Let’s begin this process amicably and see if we can achieve our goals without changes in statutes or regulations, though we are looking into all available options to expedite this effort,” McCurry noted.
The dyes set to be removed include 40 varieties of red dye used in popular snacks like M&M’s and cereals such as Lucky Charms.
U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) described the announcement as “fantastic news.”
Great news. Thanks @seckennedy and @us_fda for working to remove toxic dyes from American diets. This is a step forward as our country prioritizes the health of its citizens.
– Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@senkatiebritt)
Senator Tommy Tuberville also expressed support for the initiative.
Great news. I previously questioned an FDA official about Red Dye 3, and I will keep collaborating with @seckennedy to improve America’s health.
– Coach Tommy Tuberville (@sentuberville)
Britt and Tuberville had previously led efforts calling for a complete ban on Red No. 3, which the FDA announced earlier this year.
