Listing of Color Additives Exempt From Certification; Spirulina Extract

Document 2026-02314 is a Final Rule published by the Department of Health and Human Services in the Federal Register on February 6, 2026, with an effective date of March 23, 2026. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is amending the color additive regulations to provide for the expanded use of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) extract as a color additive in human foods generally (except for infant formula, certain foods subject to regulation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and foods for which standards of identity have been issued under section 401 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, unless the use of the added color is authorized by such standards) at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice (GMP), to lower the heavy metal specifications for lead, arsenic, and mercury, and to add a specification for cadmium. We are taking this action in response to a color additive petition (CAP) submitted by GNT USA, LLC (GNT or petitioner). View the original at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/06/2026-02314/listing-of-color-additives-exempt-from-certification-spirulina-extract.

No. Document 2026-02314 is not classified as economically significant under Executive Order 12866. Economically significant rules require OIRA review and are estimated to have impacts of $100 million or more per year.