Summary:
Almost 20% of packaged foods and beverages in the US contain synthetic dyes, often paired with excessive sugar to attract children. These additives have been linked to behavioral issues, yet remain widespread among major brands like Mars and PepsiCo. Experts criticize the FDA for relying on voluntary reform, contrasting it with Europe’s stricter labeling laws. Growing state-level action offers hope for meaningful change...

Dr. Elizabeth Dunford, Research Fellow at The George Institute, and Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Nutrition at the University of North Carolina, said that the continued presence of synthetic dyes in the food system was a cause for concern.

"Given the accumulation of evidence over the last 40 years pointing to the health harms of synthetic dyes, it's disappointing to see that they're still so prevalent in our food system, particularly in products that are designed to appeal to children," she said.

"The high levels of sugar in these brightly colored products suggests that companies are using synthetic dyes to market sweet foods and beverages, but both ingredients are linked to poor health outcomes."...

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010245.htm