#Artificialfooddyes

The United States will phase out all petroleum-based synthetic food dyes—including those that give Gatorade and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their iconic colors—by the end of 2026, according to a stunning policy announcement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. While this sweeping change has grabbed global headlines, scientists continue to point out that, so far, there is no clear evidence that these artificial dyes are directly harmful to humans. The move is already stirring debates and questions among Thai consumers and food manufacturers, as many of the same synthetic dyes are widely used in Thailand, particularly in candies, snacks, and beverages beloved by children and adults alike. What does the science really say about these colorful additives? Should Thailand follow America’s lead?

A major U.S. policy shift could reshape the way colors appear in our foods. By the end of 2026, the United States plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes. The goal is to retire six of the most-used dyes and eventually end the use of two remaining colors. The announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services has sparked global discussion, including in Thailand, where similar colorants are common in candies, snacks, and drinks.