Listing of Color Additive Exempt From Certification; Spirulina Extract; Delay of Effective Date

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is announcing a delay of the effective date of our February 6, 2026, final order to amend the color additive regulations to provide for the expanded safe 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 (USDA), and foods for which standards of identity have been issued under section 401 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C 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. The delay of the effective date is required by law following the filing of timely objections and a request for a hearing on the final order. This announcement does not reflect a change in our determination that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm from the use of this color additive under the conditions of its intended use. In addition, this announcement does not constitute a determination that all of the issues raised in the submission constitute objections or that a hearing is justified on any objections or requests for a hearing that have been filed.