2026-10615Proposed RuleWallet

Benzene and Friends May Finally Exit U.S. Food Additives

Published Date: 5/28/2026

Proposed Rule

Summary

The FDA is reopening the comment period on a petition from the Environmental Defense Fund and others to remove four harmful solvents—benzene, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, and trichloroethylene—from food additive rules. This change affects food makers who use these solvents and aims to make our food safer. Comments are open until June 29, 2026, giving everyone a chance to share new info before any costly changes happen.

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Petition to Remove Four Solvents

If you make food products, the FDA is considering a petition to remove four solvents—benzene, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, and trichloroethylene—from food additive regulations. FDA is asking for information and comments (deadline June 29, 2026) and is seeking input on practical issues food manufacturers would face if these uses are phased out.

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Key Dates

Effective Date
Published Date
Comments Due
1/11/2024
5/28/2026
6/29/2026

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Health and Human Services Department
Food and Drug Administration
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