Big News from Kraft Heinz
Yesterday, Kraft Heinz dropped a big announcement: they’re pulling the plug on any new products that use artificial colors in the U.S.
- No more new flavors with synthetic dyes. That’s a clean cut promise.
- Existing products will be purged of those additives by the end of 2027. They’re going full-on “natural” mode.
So if you’re a fan of that bright green ketchup or the lavender sodas, stay tuned—just remember the company’s taking a serious step toward healthier choices.
Breaking the Color Code: A Clean Slate for American Food
In a bold move that’s breathing fresh air into our plates, Kraft Heinz announced on June 17 that nearly 90% of its U.S. products are already free from the plastic‑like dyes we’ve long relied on. For the few that still use them, the company vows to ditch non‑essential colors, swap them out for nature‑friendly alternatives, or craft brand‑new shades if no substitute exists.
Why the Fuss About Dyes?
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), joined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has called for the gradual elimination of petroleum‑based synthetic dyes in the U.S. food supply. “For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum‑based chemicals without their knowledge or consent,” declared HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in April. He warned that these “poisonous compounds” do more harm than good, especially to kids, then called on industry partners to clean up the color shelf.
Industry Response
- Kraft Heinz – Francisco says it’s no secret the company has gone dye‑free with classics like Kraft Mac & Cheese since 2016, and the iconic Heinz Tomato Ketchup relies purely on tomatoes.
- Kellogg – The cereal giant pledges the same cuts, ditching artificial hues in its lines.
- Tyson Foods – The meatpacker is stepping away from synthetic colors, aiming for cleaner labels.
- Walmart’s Sam’s Club – The retail power house has announced plans to purge dyed products too.
What’s Happening Behind the Scenes?
When you ask the Kraft Heinz North America President, Pedro Navio, he emphasizes that the brand’s natural or zero colors philosophy is already deep-rooted: “We’re dedicated to giving Americans food that’s nutritious, affordable, and delicious. You don’t see any artificial dyes in our ketchup – it’s just the meat of the tomato.”
Why It Matters
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary mentioned the push toward natural ingredients precisely because “kids in America are seeing a spike in diabetes, obesity, depression, and ADHD.” The hope? By swapping out toxic dyes, we might curb some of these concerns.
Looking Forward
With HHS’s call for change, the food industry is taking it seriously. Whether it’s a soda, a snack bar, or a meat roll, companies are planning to offer dye‑free options. It’s a step toward health and honesty—now that’s something to tweet about (without a fake clickbait title).
Dye Ban Opposition
Food Dyes: The Great Color Debate
When you scroll through your grocery aisles, you’re not just picking up a loaf of bread or a bag of chips – you’re also snagging the splash of color that makes food look picture‑perfect. But lately, those vibrant hues have become the talk of the town.
Consumer Brands Association (CBA) – “We’ve Got the Science, Folks!”
- Main Claim: “All ingredients in American food are rigorously studied. They’re safe.”
- They’re pushy about keeping the status quo and encouraging alternative additives without sacrificing safety.
- “Throwing in a patchwork of state laws? That’s confusing for consumers, hinders innovation, and hikes grocery bills.”
International Association of Color Manufacturers (IACM) – “Colors Still Reign Supreme”
- Rebutting myths: “Synthetic (FD&C) colors are approved worldwide, including Europe.”
- Fast Green No. 3 is allowed in the U.S. but not permitted for food use in the EU or U.K.
- Some European colors (Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, etc.) carry warnings on labels.
- They warn that the 2026 reformulation push is overly optimistic, ignores science, and could lead to supply chaos.
HHS – The Big Shake-Up
- Soon to revoke Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B.
- Expect a mass removal of six dyes (Green No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5 & 6, Blue No. 1 & 2) by next year.
- FD&C Red No. 3 will also get the boot.
- On the upside: Four new natural dyes are coming in, and the agency is partnering with NIH to study child health impacts.
- Officials say they’ve not sealed a deal with corporations yet, but they’re “open for friendly talks.”
What’s the Bottom Line?
Food dyes are turning heads, sparking heated debates and stirring pot (pun intended). Regulators are fine-tuning the palette, while industry groups try to keep the colors flowing. Stay tuned – the foray into “natural” hues might color (or colorless) our future food.