The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved beetroot red and expanded spirulina extract use in food products. These approvals support the ongoing shift to replace synthetic dyes with natural alternatives.
FDA Approves Beetroot Red and Spirulina Use
The FDA has approved beetroot red, a reddish-purple powder or liquid, as a natural food colorant. Spirulina extract, a blue-green powder from Arthrospira platensis, has long been used in many food products like candies and beverages. The new FDA decision expands spirulina’s use to more human foods, with exceptions for infant formula and certain USDA-inspected products.
This action is part of the FDA’s push to phase out synthetic dyes, which have been linked to health risks, and promote safer, natural colorants in the food industry.
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Additionally, the FDA now allows food products with natural dyes to be labeled “no artificial colors.” This helps consumers distinguish between synthetic and natural dye products more easily.
Concerns Over Synthetic Dyes
Artificial dyes, including red dye No. 3, yellow dyes Nos. 5 and 6, and blue dyes Nos. 1 and 2, have raised concerns due to links to cancer and neurobehavioral issues in children and animals. Despite their low cost and manufacturing advantages, these dyes pose health risks. Dr. Wesley McWhorter, a dietitian, stated that synthetic dyes are not inherently healthier or necessary for food production.
California led the charge by banning red dye No. 3 and other common synthetic dyes in school foods. Other states are following with similar regulations, which will take effect in the coming years.
What’s Known About Beetroot and Spirulina Extract
Beetroot red comes from beet juice or powdered beets. It has been a staple in food coloring for centuries. Spirulina extract, derived from blue-green algae, has been popular in health circles, though it doesn’t provide significant nutrition when used as a dye due to the small quantities involved.
Concerns about spirulina contamination exist in unregulated products, but the FDA ensures that spirulina in food dyes is safe for use.
The Shift Toward Natural Dyes
The FDA’s move to approve beetroot red and expand spirulina use signals a growing trend toward natural dyes. Major companies like Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, and Nestlé are already replacing synthetic dyes with plant- and algae-based alternatives. As this trend grows, expect more products to adopt “no artificial colors” labels.
However, Dr. McWhorter reminds us that a healthy, fiber-rich diet remains the most crucial factor for well-being. The color of the food should not overshadow its nutritional value.
