WASHINGTON, DC — The American Bakers Association (ABA) has begun a new initiative in response to recent regulations from the FDA encouraging food manufacturers to phase out FD&C colors.

Building on the momentum gained by ABA’s August 2025 “Baked Goods in Schools Pledge” — a voluntary commitment to removing certified FD&C colors from baked goods served in K-12 schools by the start of the 2026-27 school year — the association announced its “Baked Goods FD&C Colors Pledge,” a similar voluntary industry dedication to eliminate certified FD&C colors from baked goods across the US.

More than 90% of ABA member companies have already committed to eliminating certified FD&C colors by Dec. 31, 2028. The “Baked Goods FD&C Colors Pledge” will advance the commercial baking industry’s progress and signifies the proactive efforts of ABA members to go beyond existing regulatory requirements as they serve all communities nationwide.

“Today’s announcement reinforces our industry’s commitment to serve Americans by formalizing a date to remove certified FD&C colors from our nation’s baked goods,” said Eric Dell, ABA President and CEO. “By uniting around this pledge, our members are building on their progress in this space, going beyond what’s required and responding to evolving consumer desires.”

With ABA’s new initiative, combined with its “Baked Goods in Schools Pledge,” the association is extending its commitment to delivering high-quality baked goods that nourish communities and provide clean labels. ABA will work closely with member companies to meet the December 2028 deadline.