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WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Some of your favorite frozen desserts are about to get a makeover. More than 40 of America’s largest ice cream makers have pledged to remove artificial colors from their products by 2028, a major shift in response to growing health concerns and federal pressure.
The change is part of a broader effort led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has made cutting synthetic additives from the U.S. food supply a top priority.
“It is relevant to my favorite food, which is ice cream,” Kennedy said at a rollout event, where he helped serve scoops of all-natural ice cream.
The voluntary commitment will phase out seven artificial dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 colors long used to give ice cream its eye-catching appearance.
“By taking this step now, ice cream manufacturers are ensuring that ice cream remains a special part of our lives,” said Andy Jacobs, Chair of the Ice Cream Board at the International Dairy Foods Association.
Officials say the shift could have the greatest impact on children, some of whom are more sensitive to synthetic food dyes. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins praised farmers and producers for embracing the change.
“Our current health outcomes, especially for our children, are unsustainable,” Rollins said. “American agriculture is at the heart of the solution.”
The industry-wide transition is set to be completed by the end of 2027.