The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a significant announcement on Monday, July 14, by approving the use of the natural color additive gardenia (genipin) blue for dyeing a variety of foods and drinks. This approval marks the fourth natural color additive that the FDA has approved for use in food in the past two months, reflecting a trend towards more natural ingredients in the food industry.
Gardenia blue, derived from the fruit of the gardenia plant, is now permitted for use in sports drinks, flavored water, fruit drinks, ready-to-drink teas, and various candies. The vivid blue color provided by gardenia blue will enhance the visual appeal of these products without the need for synthetic dyes. While gardenia blue is currently not permitted for use in the European Union, there is an ongoing petition to add it to the EU’s list of approved food colorings.
The FDA’s decision to approve gardenia blue aligns with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s initiative to phase out synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply. This initiative, part of the broader Make America Healthy Again campaign, aims to prioritize the health and well-being of consumers by promoting natural and healthier alternatives in food production.
In addition to approving gardenia blue, the FDA also sent letters to food manufacturers urging them to expedite the removal of Red Dye No. 3 from their products. This synthetic dye has been banned earlier this year, and manufacturers have until January 15, 2027, to eliminate it from their food items. By accelerating the phase-out of Red Dye No. 3, the FDA hopes to further advance its goal of promoting a healthier food environment in the United States.
Overall, the FDA’s approval of gardenia blue and its efforts to eliminate synthetic dyes from the food supply demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing consumer health and well-being. With more natural color additives like gardenia blue becoming available, food manufacturers have a wider range of options to create visually appealing products that meet consumer demands for transparency and natural ingredients.
