FMI Statement on HHS, FDA Color Additive Announcement

Arlington, VA – Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher issued the following statement on the joint announcement by U.S. Health and Human Services’ (HHS) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) today on specific food color additives.

“As the food industry association, FMI regards FDA as the authority on food safety and nutrition standards for products sold in the United States and HHS in its role to promote public health. The agencies have the unique ability and important role not only to carefully evaluate scientific data and information on a particular substance, but also to make risk-based decisions and communicate those to consumers and industry alike to instill confidence in the safety of our food supply and food products.

“As science evolves and color alternatives are developed, tested and made available, innovations will continue to grow alongside changing consumer preferences. Many of these alternatives rely on an important ally for consumers – farmers and their capacity to grow the necessary alternatives and ensure that they meet other applicable FDA regulations. We're committed to working alongside farmers, the food industry and federal partners to innovate and keep the U.S. food system safe, nutritious, abundant, and globally respected.”