Dairy Industry Commits to Removing Artificial Food Dyes by 2027

HHS announces voluntary, industry-wide pledge to eliminate petroleum-based dyes from dairy products

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The U.S. dairy industry has committed to removing artificial, petroleum-based food dyes from its products by the end of 2027, according to an announcement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The voluntary, industry-led pledge involves dairy farmers, milk producers, and ice cream manufacturers representing dozens of companies.

Why it matters

The initiative reflects growing bipartisan interest in improving children's health and food quality, and could serve as a model for other industries to remove artificial additives from their products.

The details

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., joined by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary, announced the voluntary pledge during an event at the Department of Agriculture. Officials emphasized that the commitment was industry-led, rather than the result of new federal regulation.

  • The pledge is intended to be completed by the end of 2027.

The players

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary.

Brooke Rollins

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary.

Marty Makary

Food and Drug Administration Commissioner.

U.S. Dairy Industry

Includes dairy farmers, milk producers, and ice cream manufacturers representing dozens of companies.

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What they’re saying

“The initiative reflects growing bipartisan interest in improving children's health and food quality, and could serve as a model for other industries to remove artificial additives from their products.”

— Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary (HHS Press Announcement)

What’s next

The dairy industry has committed to completing the removal of artificial food dyes from their products by the end of 2027.

The takeaway

This voluntary, industry-led commitment to eliminate artificial dyes from dairy products is a significant step towards improving the quality and healthfulness of food, especially for children. It demonstrates the dairy industry's responsiveness to consumer demands and could inspire similar initiatives in other food sectors.