The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a fourth color derived from natural sources for use in foods in the last two months—the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice, it said.

The action comes after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it would work to “phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply,” per the press release.

The FDA stated that about 40% of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.

Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks, ready-to-drink teas and candy.

In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline.

“This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”

Some brands have said they will begin phasing out artificial dyes. Last month, Kraft Heinz announced it would begin removing artificial dyes from its domestic products beginning 2027. A spokeswoman confirmed it would affect brands like Kool-Aid, Jell-O, Crystal Light and other beverages and desserts that contain dyes like Red No. 40 and Blue No. 1.