Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s campaign to eliminate synthetic food dyes from the American food supply is facing stiff resistance from one of the country’s most iconic candy makers —

The health secretary has used peer pressure to persuade food makers to nix synthetic dyes. The candy industry is holding out, arguing American consumers like bright sweets.

Welch’s Fruit Snacks will cut synthetic dyes from its full lineup of products by early 2026, parent company PIM Brands Inc. said, making it the latest American brand to pledge to eliminate the colorants.

National Confectioners Association questions focus on synthetic dyes as MARS reverses its 2016 commitment, despite other companies joining Kennedy's initiative

Two KC ice cream shops are already using natural ingredients instead of artificial dyes, putting them ahead of the FDA's plan to eliminate synthetic dyes in American foods by the end of 2026.

In addition to finding these dyes in brightly colored processed foods, the researchers also found them in more muted foods like blueberry bagels, taco shells, carbonated drinks, and hot dog buns. Overall, they were present in about 1 out of every 5 foods and beverages.

TUESDAY, July 15, 2025 (HealthDay News) — A natural blue food coloring made from gardenia fruit has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The additive — dubbed gardenia blue — can now be used in foods like sports drinks, flavored waters, fruit drinks, teas, and both hard and soft candies, the FDA announced July 14.