By the close of 2021, top snack conglomerates such as Lays and Tostitos are due to eradicate artificial colors from their products. The decision is part of a broader initiative directed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aimed at withdrawing the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes across the food industry.
This development was reported by Ramon Laguarta, PepsiCo’s CEO, during an earnings call on April 24. He confirmed that the change is currently in progress and hinted at similar strides to be taken across other brands within the company’s portfolio.
With over 60% of their product line already free from artificial colors as of the present month, the corporation is pioneering the shift towards more natural components. Their leadership mirrors earlier moves such as reducing sodium and sugar quantities, and promoting healthier fats in their snacks.
Looking forward, anticipations are that the entirety of PepsiCo’s diverse portfolio, encompassing popular brands such as Doritos and Cheetos, will have transitioned to natural colorings. If not entirely, the option for naturally colored variants will definitely be made available to the consumers.
The intended purge of all petroleum-based synthetic dyes by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began following Kennedy’s appointment as Health Secretary in February. His criticisms of food manufacturers for artifically coloring the food with petroleum derivatives for far too long without consumer consent or knowledge spurred this directive.
As explained by the FDA, artificial dyes have been regularly used in food production to compensate for color degradation brought about by light exposure, air, drastic temperature shifts, moisture fluctuations, and storage conditions. Their responsibility extends to amending any inconsistencies in natural color and augmentating naturally occurring hues, in addition to giving color to otherwise colorless foods. They are also used to infuse ‘fun’ appeal into certain foods.
The FDA has now pivoted to urge food manufacturers to replace these petrochemical dyes with natural ingredients instead. This decision is aligned with the growing demand for healthier, more transparent food options among the consumers. By the end of 2026, a select set of dyes including 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 will be phased out.
The forthcoming months are also expected to witness moves to discontinue the use of Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B. As the FDA action to rescind authorization for these colorants is expected to unfold, it will mark yet another stride towards incorporating natural coloring agents across the spectrum of food products.