What Candy and Gummy Makers Need to Know About the New FDA Upcoming Bans on Artificial Food Dyes

The push for natural food coloring is no longer just a trend—it’s quickly becoming the new standard. As part of broader efforts to ensure food safety and transparency, the FDA is shifting its stance on artificial dyes, signaling significant changes ahead for candy and nutraceutical manufacturers.

While synthetic colors like Red No. 3 and Yellow No. 5 have long been used for their stability and cost-effectiveness, they’re increasingly under scrutiny. Consumers are more aware of what's in their food and supplements, driving demand for clean-label products that use naturally derived ingredients. According to a 2023 NielsenIQ report, 62% of U.S. consumers say they avoid artificial coloring when choosing food for their families.

For companies creating gummies, hard candies, and nutraceutical confections, these changes present both a challenge and a growth opportunity. Reformulating to comply with upcoming FDA food dye regulations may take time. Still, those who act early will not only ensure candy color compliance, they’ll also gain a competitive edge in a cleaner, more transparent marketplace.

FDA’s Plan to Phase Out Synthetic Food Dyes by 2026

In a significant move, the FDA is working toward a synthetic dye ban that will impact many of the most commonly used artificial food colorings. The transition will unfold over the next 1–2 years, with full enforcement likely by the end of 2026.

Among the banned food dyes being scrutinized or phased out are:

• Red No. 3 – Linked to thyroid tumors in animal studies; already banned in cosmetics since 1990.
• Yellow No. 5 and No. 6 are associated with hyperactivity concerns and are under increasing global scrutiny.
• Red No. 40 – One of the most widely used dyes, but often flagged by consumer advocacy groups.

Scientific studies and consumer pressure have prompted the FDA to act. A 2021 report by CSPI and CHANGE outlined the developmental risks of synthetic dyes, helping accelerate policy reform.

Expect enforcement to follow a staged approach—beginning with voluntary reformulation, then mandatory compliance, and eventually removing non-compliant products from shelves.

New FDA-Approved Natural Color Additives Explained

As synthetic dyes face increased pressure, the FDA is expanding its approved natural color additives list, giving manufacturers options to align with clean-label standards and maintain vibrant products.

• Galdieria Extract Blue – Derived from red algae, stable under heat and light. Ideal for gummies and hard candy.
  → Read the FDA approval
• Butterfly Pea Flower Extract – Provides rich blue and purple tones. pH-sensitive and suitable for low-acid formulations.
  → Research on color stability
• Calcium Phosphate – Used as a white pigment alternative to titanium dioxide in mints and pressed supplements.
  → FDA Ruling

While these natural food dye alternatives offer exciting possibilities, manufacturers must carefully test for heat stability, pH reactivity, and taste neutrality.

What This Means for Candy and Gummy Manufacturers

Switching to natural colorants isn’t plug-and-play. Reformulation involves several challenges and trade-offs:

Formulation Challenges

• pH Sensitivity – May cause inconsistent color shifts in acidic environments.
• Heat Stability – Some natural dyes degrade at high temperatures.
• Taste and Texture – Certain colorants may affect flavor or mouthfeel.

Labeling and Transparency

Clean labeling creates a marketing edge, but requires accuracy. Ensure all natural ingredients are listed and communicated clearly.

Cost and Sourcing

Natural colorants tend to be more expensive and may have longer lead times. Plan to avoid production delays.

Building Trust in the Nutraceutical Space

Consumers of functional gummies expect transparency. Using natural colors helps reinforce brand trust and supports clean-label positioning.

Candy Pros’ Commitment to Compliance and Innovation

We’re actively leading the way in FDA-compliant candy manufacturing at Candy Pros. We’re committed to delivering natural ingredients that meet evolving regulations and consumer expectations.

How to Prepare: What Manufacturers Should Do Now

Use this checklist to begin your transition toward FDA-compliant, clean-label products:

• Audit your ingredient deck – Flag synthetic dyes at risk.
• Test natural alternatives – Start with small batch R&D.
• Segment your products – Offer both clean-label and legacy SKUs if needed.
• Communicate transparently – Let buyers and customers know what’s changing and why.
• Subscribe to updates – Stay informed via FDA alerts and industry resources like NCA.

Lead the Change with Smarter Formulation and Strategy

The shift toward natural food coloring isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about creating better products and more resilient brands.

Candy and nutraceutical manufacturers who take action now will gain a lead in a rapidly evolving market. Candy Pros supports that journey—from R&D through scale-up and formulation optimization.

Contact us today to request a sample, talk to our formulation team, or learn how Candy Pros can help you transition to compliant, clean-label gummy and candy manufacturing.