FDA Delays Effective Date for Beetroot Red Color Additive Approval in Human Foods

The FDA is delaying the effective date of its February 6, 2026, final order that would have allowed beetroot red to be used as a color additive in human foods generally. The delay is legally mandated after timely objections were filed against the final order. Beetroot red was originally approved for use at levels consistent with current good manufacturing practice (cGMP). The original order excluded certain categories: products under USDA jurisdiction, infant formula, and foods governed by FDA standards of identity under section 401 of the FD&C Act (unless those standards explicitly permitted added color). The delay puts a hold on these permissions while objections are reviewed. The FDA emphasizes that this delay does not represent a reversal of its scientific finding — the agency still maintains there is a reasonable certainty of no harm from beetroot red under its intended use conditions. The delay is purely procedural, required by law when timely objections are filed. The FDA also clarifies that this announcement does not predetermine whether all objections are valid or whether a formal hearing will be granted on any of the filed objections. Further administrative proceedings will determine next steps.

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