A group representing colour additive producers has filed a federal lawsuit to overturn West Virginia’s new prohibition on synthetic dyes in food and drink products.
The challenge comes as several U.S. states move to regulate artificial ingredients independently of federal policy. West Virginia’s measure, the first broad state-level ban on synthetic food dyes, restricts substances still approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Industry groups argue the rule imposes inconsistent standards that could disrupt national production and distribution. They maintain that artificial colourants remain legally authorised under federal law and that there is no new scientific evidence to justify the ban.
Texas has already enacted a separate labelling requirement for foods containing artificial colouring, while at least 20 other states have introduced similar proposals this year. The trend follows political efforts to promote dietary reform under the “Make America Healthy Again” banner, led by the U.S. Department of Health.
Many large manufacturers have started shifting towards natural ingredients in anticipation of tougher regulation. The outcome of the case could determine how far states can diverge from federal oversight and will be closely watched by food producers, suppliers, and retailers across the country.