Renowned snack makers such as Lays and Tostitos are set to remove artificial colors from their products by the year’s end. This change comes as a response to the intention announced by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to progressively eliminate petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the industry.
The CEO of PepsiCo, Ramon Laguarta, discussed this shift during an earnings call on April 24. He stated that the process of transitioning away from artificial colors has already begun. More brands within the company’s portfolio are expected to adopt this alteration in the near future.
As it stands now, over sixty percent of PepsiCo’s businesses have already transitioned away from the usage of artificial colorisation. Laguarta shared his optimistic views, pointing out that the rest of the corporation’s brands are likely to do the same shortly.
Simultaneously, PepsiCo aims to lead consumer demand for more natural components. The company has evidenced this initiative by reducing sugar and sodium in their products and promoting healthier fats. Ensuring healthier alternatives is a high priority for the brand.
Just like PPepsiCo’s current brands, its other household names, such as Doritos and Cheetos, are heading in the direction of switching to natural coloring. Either the entire portfolio will be using natural colors, or at the bare minimum, consumers will be given a choice of options that include natural colorings.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in tandem with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, are behind the initiative to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes. This resolution is instigated following RFK Jr.’s appointment as health secretary earlier this year in February.
On April 22, Kennedy voiced strong criticism towards food manufacturers for exposing Americans to petroleum-based chemicals. He stated that consumers were largely unaware and unconsenting to having such chemicals in their food products for an extended period.
As per the FDA, synthetic dyes are typically used to make up for color loss caused by exposure to a variety of factors such as light, air, extreme temperatures, and differing storage conditions. They also serve to rectify natural color discrepancies, heighten naturally occurring colors, and introduce color to foods that are otherwise colorless or marketed as ‘fun’ foods.
In a recent move, the FDA has now requested food companies to gradually replace petrochemical dyes with ingredients sourced from natural origins. The imperative need for this change arises due to growing concerns about the health implications tied to long-term exposure of such artificial substances used in our foods.
A selection of dyes is slated to gradually be removed by the end of 2026. These include FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2. This decision was made with the intent of providing healthier and safer choices for consumers, free from potentially harmful effects caused by artificial ingredients.
Further regulatory action is anticipated to come into effect in the next few months. This action proposes the removal of authorization for the use of a few other dyes such as Citrus Red No. 2, Orange B. This substantial shift towards more organic and naturally derived ingredients continues to gain momentum within the food industry.
A critical part of this transitional phase is ensuring that consumers are not left in the dark. Educating the public about the changes in their favorite products, explaining why these changes are necessary, and most importantly, assuring them that taste and quality will not be compromised despite the elimination of chemical dyes, is a high priority for all companies involved.
In summary, popular snack brands have started making a pivotal shift towards healthier options. The aim is to cut artificial coloring from their products altogether, or at least offer alternatives with natural colorings, a move that offers promise for healthier eating, integral to many individuals’ lifestyle today.