RFK Jr. Faces Candy Industry Pushback On Dye Ban

While several major food manufacturers have jumped on board with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s efforts to eliminate synthetic food dyes from products nationwide, certain candy makers appear to be less enthused by the proposal.

After Kennedy announced a campaign to go after synthetic food dyes in April, many major food manufacturers, such as Nestle, ConAgra, Kraft Heinz, General Mills and PepsiCo, agreed to voluntarily commit to ending the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in their products. However, candy manufacturers that rely heavily on artificial food colorings to develop their products are pushing back.

“People can freely buy cannabis, THC products, alcohol, and cigarettes — but vibrantly colored candy is an issue?” asked Christopher Gindlesperger, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications for the National Confectioners Association. “Give me a break – consumers know that confectionery products are treats and that they contain sugar, food colors, and other FDA-approved ingredients, because candy is intrinsically transparent. People have a unique mindset when they enjoy chocolate and candy that is not present when interacting with other foods. Chocolate and candy are safe to enjoy as they have been for generations.”

“People in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging just 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day – which is far less than the other categories of indulgent food that contain synthetic dyes,” Gindlesperger added.