Federal Register #2026-22866

FDA removes abandoned solvent uses from color additive regulations

The FDA issued a final regulatory order changing which solvents may be used in certain color additives. - Government agency: Food and Drug Administration (FDA), within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). - Petitioner: International Association of Color Manufacturers (IACM); no product vendors or OEMs are identified. - Regulatory change: Removes methylene chloride, trichloroethylene, and ethylene dichloride as authorized extraction solvents for annatto extract, paprika oleoresin, and turmeric oleoresin because these uses have been abandoned. - Related petition request: FDA denies as moot IACM’s request to remove methylene chloride authorization for inks used to mark fruits and vegetables, because that authorization was removed in a separate action. - Procurement scope: No goods or services are being requested; no quantities, part numbers, or contract value are provided.

Description

The FDA is partially granting a color additive petition submitted by the International Association of Color Manufacturers. It amends color additive regulations to remove methylene chloride, trichloroethylene, and ethylene dichloride as authorized extraction solvents for annatto extract, paprika oleoresin, and turmeric oleoresin because those uses have been permanently abandoned. FDA denies as moot the request to remove methylene chloride as a diluent in inks used to mark fruits and vegetables, because that authorization was removed in a separate action. The order is effective January 11, 2027; objections and requests for a hearing are due December 10, 2026.

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