Food has been at the forefront of the Trump administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” movement this year, creating new regulatory headwinds for companies struggling with slowing consumption and sales.
Lawmakers on both sides of the political spectrum have capitalized on consumer anxiety about artificial dyes or other ingredients associated with ultra-processed foods. The FDA has voluntarily asked companies to phase out artificial dyes by the end of next year, but several states, notably Texas, California and West Virginia, have gone further with outright bans or labeling restrictions on foods containing certain ingredients.
With Congress unlikely to interfere with state legislation, food companies are largely on their own when it comes to navigating regulatory patches. Some have already responded with MAHA-friendly formulations, such as eliminating artificial colors or staying away from ingredients like seed oil.
But other companies are fighting back, saying state regulations mislead consumers and preempt federal law. Some of the largest lobbying groups representing food and beverage companies, such as Kraft Heinz and Coca-Cola, have sued states over the regulations, a trend that could continue in 2026 as these laws move closer to taking effect.
Food Dive has rounded up the biggest stories shaping ingredient regulation this year, many of which will impact companies in 2026.
