Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- sustained /suh-STEYND/
- synthetic /sin-THET-ik/
- additive /AD-i-tiv/
- hyperactivity /hahy-per-ak-TIV-i-tee/
- compliance /kuhm-PLAHY-uhns/
[adjective] – continuing for a long time without stopping
The new policy was introduced after sustained criticism from environmental groups.
[adjective] – made by chemical processes rather than natural sources
The company decided to replace synthetic flavors in its snacks with natural ones.
[noun] – a substance added to something in a small amount to improve it or preserve it
The bread contains additives to keep it fresh longer.
[noun] – a condition in which someone is too active and has difficulty sitting still or focusing
Studies have looked at the connection between screen time and hyperactivity in children.
[noun] – the act of following rules, laws, or orders
The company must show compliance with safety regulations.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A government announcement on July 14, 2025, revealed that close to 40 manufacturers involved in ice cream production across the United States have committed to withdrawing seven artificial dyes from their products within three years. This decision followed sustained pressure from the Trump administration, which has urged the food industry to eliminate synthetic colorings due to possible health concerns. The color additives planned for elimination are Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3. Although individual companies were not publicly named, the chief executive of Turkey Hill Dairy attended the briefing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) described the move as a major shift in manufacturing standards. While regulatory authorities consider approved dyes to be generally safe, certain studies have indicated a potential connection between these additives and neurobehavioral conditions, such as hyperactivity, in some children.
According to FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, this development is part of a broader movement to reevaluate food safety standards. Makary also confirmed that Red 3 was banned earlier this year, and manufacturers are required to eliminate it by 2027. The FDA has recently approved new natural alternatives, such as a blue coloring derived from gardenia fruit. However, some health experts warned that removing dyes alone will not address other risk factors, including high levels of sugar and saturated fat in ice cream. The Center for Science in the Public Interest raised concerns about depending on voluntary commitments, emphasizing that regulatory enforcement is needed to guarantee compliance. New federal dietary guidelines, expected later this year, may revise existing views on saturated fat, according to Makary.
According to FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, this development is part of a broader movement to reevaluate food safety standards. Makary also confirmed that Red 3 was banned earlier this year, and manufacturers are required to eliminate it by 2027. The FDA has recently approved new natural alternatives, such as a blue coloring derived from gardenia fruit. However, some health experts warned that removing dyes alone will not address other risk factors, including high levels of sugar and saturated fat in ice cream. The Center for Science in the Public Interest raised concerns about depending on voluntary commitments, emphasizing that regulatory enforcement is needed to guarantee compliance. New federal dietary guidelines, expected later this year, may revise existing views on saturated fat, according to Makary.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever checked the ingredients on a food label before buying it? If yes, what kind of ingredients do you usually avoid? If not, would you like to try checking next time? Why or why not?
- Have you ever eaten food with artificial colors, like brightly colored candy or ice cream? If yes, how did it taste or look? If not, would you like to try it, or do you prefer natural-colored food? Why?
- Do you agree that the government should create strict rules instead of asking companies to make voluntary changes?
- Why do you think some companies still use artificial dyes, even if natural alternatives are available?
- Besides food dyes, what other ingredients do you think should be removed from processed foods to make them healthier?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- food industry
- neurobehavioral
- standard
- health expert
- dietary