ABA launches nationwide pledge to eliminate FD&C colors by end of 2028
The pledge specifically targets these synthetic dyes found in many brightly colored snacks, pastries, and other baked goods, which offer no nutritional benefit and have raised health concerns among consumers and advocacy groups.
USA – On November 7, 2025, the American Bakers Association (ABA) announced a significant voluntary commitment known as the “Baked Goods FD&C Colors Pledge,” marking a major step toward eliminating certified Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) synthetic colors from baked goods sold across the United States by the end of 2028.
This initiative reflects the baking industry’s dedication to improving food safety, consumer health, and ingredient transparency in response to rising consumer demand for cleaner-label products.
This initiative builds on the momentum begun by ABA’s August 2025 “Baked Goods in Schools Pledge,” a voluntary industry pledge to eliminate FD&C (Food, Drug & Cosmetic) synthetic food colors from all baked goods served in U.S. schools by the 2026/27 academic year.
According to the ABA, more than 90% of its member companies have already pledged to remove FD&C-certified artificial colors from their baked goods within the specified timeframe.
This high level of commitment underscores the industry’s readiness to adapt to evolving market trends and regulatory pressures focused on reducing synthetic additives in food.
The pledge specifically targets these synthetic dyes found in many brightly colored snacks, pastries, and other baked goods, which have no nutritional benefit and have raised health concerns among consumers and advocacy groups.
The voluntary elimination aims to replace these petroleum-based dyes with natural color alternatives derived from fruits, vegetables, and spices, which are perceived as safer and more transparent.
ABA President and CEO Eric Dell highlighted that the pledge goes beyond regulatory requirements, demonstrating the baked goods sector’s proactive approach to leading on food safety and wellness.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality, taste, and enjoyment of baked goods while responding to consumer preferences for more natural and minimally processed ingredients.
This industry-wide pledge aligns with broader food sector movements to phase out synthetic colours across various categories, and is supported by FDA efforts to limit or remove petroleum-based colourants from the food supply by the end of 2027.
By acting ahead of regulatory mandates, the baking industry aims to ensure a smoother transition for manufacturers and retailers while bolstering consumer trust.
The ABA plans to collaborate closely with members during the implementation phase, guiding sourcing natural color ingredients, reformulating products, and communicating changes transparently to customers and regulators.
The pledge effort also reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and healthful innovation across the baking supply chain.
This pledge positions the American baking industry as a proactive leader in responding to consumer and regulatory calls for healthier and more transparent food options nationwide.
The commitment promises to drive significant change in product formulations while retaining the beloved qualities of baked goods.
Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
