Voluntary Commitment Announced in Washington, D.C.
During a ceremony at the U.S. Department of Agriculture headquarters in Washington, D.C., the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced a voluntary commitment to remove all certified artificial food dyes from ice cream and frozen dairy products by 2028. The announcement was made alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Food and Drug Administrator Dr. Marty Makary.
The event, which featured scoops of ice cream served to attendees, marked a significant step toward cleaner labeling and healthier food choices. The dyes set to be eliminated include Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.
Industry Leaders Applaud Health-Focused Reform
Michael Dykes, DVM, President and CEO of the IDFA, praised the industry for taking initiative in response to consumer demand for more natural products.
“I am proud of ice cream makers and dairy food companies for stepping up for American families by making this voluntary commitment to provide ice cream and frozen dairy treats without certified artificial colors,” Dykes said. “Americans are passionate about their ice cream, and the IDFA ice cream commitment will ensure wholesome, indulgent ice cream products made with real milk from American dairy farmers remain a special part of our lives as state and federal policies evolve.”
Federal Officials Embrace the Move
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins linked the commitment to broader national goals, stating,
“I appreciate IDFA members for spearheading this new initiative and finding ways to promote President Trump’s Make America Healthy Again agenda. Each one of these endeavors help families make better choices and pursue healthier lives.”
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. also expressed support, saying,
“I applaud the International Dairy Foods Association for stepping up to eliminate certified artificial colors. The American people have made it clear they want real food, not chemicals.”
Consumer Demand Driving Change
This voluntary step reflects growing public concern over artificial additives in food and signals the dairy industry’s responsiveness to evolving health standards and consumer preferences. The initiative is expected to enhance the appeal of ice cream and other frozen treats by focusing on ingredients that align with a more natural and health-conscious lifestyle.
With a deadline of 2028, the IDFA’s commitment marks a proactive approach to reforming ingredient standards in one of America’s favorite dessert categories—while maintaining support for American dairy farmers and producers.
—Dale Sandlin reporting for Southeast AgNet