Kraft Heinz to Drop Artificial Dyes in US Foods

Kraft Heinz is pledging to remove all artificial dyes from its US foods by 2027, signaling a major shift as health concerns and government scrutiny put synthetic colors in the spotlight. The company, known for brands like Kraft Mac & Cheese, Heinz ketchup, Jell-O, and Capri-Sun, said it will also stop launching new foods with synthetic coloring, per CNN. Kraft Heinz previously removed artificial colors from its flagship macaroni and cheese in 2016, but is now expanding the policy company-wide.

The move comes as synthetic food dyes face increased scrutiny from both consumers and the federal government. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Department of Health and Human Services has put pressure on food makers, and the FDA recently banned red dye No. 3, with plans to phase out other petroleum-based dyes. Several states, including California, Virginia, and West Virginia, have already banned artificial dyes, and more than half of US states are considering similar measures.

Kraft Heinz's decision follows direct pressure from Kennedy, who reportedly met with executives from major food companies to urge them to remove artificial dyes before his term ends. About 10% of Kraft Heinz's US products contain synthetic colorants, per CNBC. The company's shift comes as it faces declining sales—down 6.4% last quarter—and changing consumer preferences toward healthier foods. Recently, two Berkshire Hathaway representatives stepped down from the board, signaling a potential shift in direction for the company. (This content was created with the help of AI. Read our AI policy.)