The Daily Faded Froot Loops and Dull Doritos: Is Big Food Losing the War on Dyes?
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Jul 28, 2025 
In this discussion, Julie Creswell, a seasoned business reporter from The New York Times specializing in the food industry, digs into the recent commitment of major food companies to eliminate artificial food dyes. She explains how health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. influenced this significant industry shift, despite its potential impact on profits. The conversation also highlights the controversies around these dyes, particularly their connection to childhood health issues and the different regulatory approaches between the U.S. and Europe.
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Big Shift on Artificial Dyes
- The announcement by major US food companies to stop using artificial dyes is one of the biggest shifts in decades.
- RFK Jr. sees artificial dyes as part of a broader health problem connected to chronic diseases, especially for children.
EU's Warning Labels on Dyes
- Studies link certain artificial food dyes to increased hyperactivity in children.
- The EU reacted by imposing warning labels on products with six specific dyes known as the Southampton Six.
Regulatory Differences US vs EU
- The EU uses the precautionary principle requiring ingredients to prove safety before approval.
- In contrast, the US regulatory system has more industry trust and looser regulation allowing easier ingredient introduction.