By Jamie Martin
In a landmark move, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) has pledged to eliminate seven artificial food dyes from dairy products sold in U.S. schools by the 2026–2027 academic year. This includes commonly used dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which are found in many processed foods.
This initiative covers milk, cheese, and yogurt offered through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. It represents a voluntary step by the dairy industry to align its products with growing health and safety concerns, especially for children.
“America’s dairy farmers and milk processors have always led the way in providing our families and schoolchildren with healthy, nutritious, and delicious milk products. While I look forward to getting whole milk back into our schools, today’s announcement shows how the dairy industry is voluntarily driving change and giving consumers what they want, without government mandates,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “I thank IDFA and the dairy industry for leading the way and look forward to other industries thinking about how together, we can Make America Healthy Again.”
By removing synthetic dyes, the dairy industry is responding to increased demand for natural and healthier food options in schools. This change is expected to positively affect the nutritional quality of meals served to students and boost public confidence in school food programs.
As this change rolls out, it stands as a model for other food sectors to follow in putting children’s health first while maintaining product quality and appeal.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National