FDA approves color additive petition for gardenia (genipin) blue

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday, July 14, that it has granted the Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition for the use of the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods. This marks the fourth color additive approval from a naturally-derived source following the agency’s announcement to phase out petroleum-based color additives and fast-track approval of naturally-derived color additives. In May, FDA approved color additive petitions for Galdieria extract blue, blue from butterfly pea flower extract, and white color from calcium phosphate.

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

“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.”

Several major CPG brands have already committed to phasing out FD&C colors before 2028, including Nestlé USA, Conagra, Kraft Heinz, and General Mills. Additionally, the Consumer Brands Association (CBA; Arlington, VA) announced on July 11 a voluntary initiative to remove FD&C colors from food and beverages served in schools by the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

“While these safe ingredients are supported by scientific evidence and a longstanding history of approval by the FDA, the industry recognizes preferences are evolving and is innovating to meet families where they are,” said Melissa Hockstad, president & CEO of CBA, in a press release. “Representing the makers of America’s trusted brands, an industry supporting more than 22 million American jobs, we will continue to work with the administration to achieve federal uniformity on these critical consumer safety and transparency issues.”

The association’s full membership list can be found here. The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) made a similar commitment to eliminate FD&C colors from ice cream products made with real milk by December 31, 2027. The Association represents companies making more than 90% of the ice cream volume sold in the U.S.

Updated July 15, 2025 at 10:24AM EST