Kraft Heinz to Eliminate Artificial Dyes from U.S. Products by 2027

Kraft Heinz has declared it will phase out FD&C artificial dyes from its American product lineup by the close of 2027. Additionally, the company has announced an immediate halt on the introduction of new products featuring these synthetic additives in the U.S.

Currently, approximately 10% of Kraft Heinz's products in the U.S. contain these FD&C colors, which are known for enhancing visual appeal. Notable brands under Kraft Heinz that incorporate these dyes include popular names such as Crystal Light, Kool-Aid, MiO, Jell-O, and Jet-Puffed, as per a company spokesperson.

Back in 2016, Kraft Heinz undertook the removal of artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors from its Kraft macaroni and cheese. Their Heinz ketchup has always been free from artificial dyes. According to Pedro Navio, the North America president of Kraft Heinz, this step forward might lead some consumers to view products as healthier, though potentially less visually striking.

This move comes amid pressure from federal agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services, steered by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., urging the food sector to eliminate artificial dyes as part of a broader health initiative.

Earlier this year, the FDA announced impending restrictions on the use of petroleum-derived synthetic dyes by the year's end, advocating for natural alternatives. Among the dyes targeted for removal are red dye 40, yellow dye 5, yellow dye 6, blue dye 1, blue dye 2, and green dye 2, as stated by FDA Commissioner Marty Makary.

Kennedy emphasized an informal understanding, rather than a formal agreement, between the FDA and food industry leaders to withdraw artificial dyes. Discussions about removing these dyes were held in March with major food companies, including Kraft Heinz, underscoring the industry-wide commitment to this effort.

Kraft Heinz expressed eagerness to collaborate with government agencies to ensure they provide nutritious, cost-effective, and wholesome food options across the United States.

The opposition to artificial food dyes has gained momentum over the years. Prior to the current administration, Red No. 3 dye was banned by the FDA due to its links to cancer in laboratory studies, although California took independent action to prohibit its use.

In its recent statement, Kraft Heinz highlighted that over 1,000 product recipes have been modified in the past half-decade to enhance nutritional value.

Pedro Navio added, 'The vast majority of our products use either natural colorants or none at all, and we're on a continuous mission to reduce FD&C colors across our remaining product lines while ensuring affordable, great-tasting meals for our consumers.'