Why is Kraft Heinz removing artificial food dyes?

Kraft Heinz is removing artificial food dyes to align with consumer preferences for natural ingredients and potential regulatory changes regarding the safety of these dyes.

When will Kraft Heinz complete the removal of artificial food dyes?

Kraft Heinz plans to eliminate all artificial food dyes from its US product portfolio by the end of 2027.

What will kraft Heinz use instead of artificial food dyes?

Kraft Heinz intends to replace artificial food dyes with natural alternatives or develop new colors and shades for products where natural replacements are not available.

Are artificial food dyes banned in the US?

While not formally banned, the FDA is considering phasing out petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation's food supply, encouraging companies like Kraft Heinz to transition to natural alternatives.

Which other companies are removing artificial food dyes?

PepsiCo, Tyson Foods, and mars, Inc. have also announced plans to remove artificial colors and additives from their products.

The student’s parents took a video and pointed out that their children had a blood lead value of up to 232 after testing. Video source: Douyin

China Gansu TianshuiA private company in Maiji District, CitykindergartenA large-scale explosion occurred recentlyBlood leadAfter the hospital’s inspection, nearly 300 school children found abnormal blood lead values. One of the children’s blood lead concentration was as high as 232.18 micrograms/liter, which far exceeded 100 micrograms/liter irreversible nerve damage cordon. In order to avoid the local hospital’s counterfeit data, parents specially crossed the province toXi’anAfter re-examination, Gansu officials rushed to Xi’an, demanding that the data be lowered, and even called students and parents to remove online videos and “believe in the government.”

According to the article “Teacher Li is not your teacher” on X, according to the official Chinese report, the incident originated from the illegal use of the park.food additivesbut the ingredients of the additives were not specified. Since general legal food additives do not contain lead, parents and the outside world have questioned whether they involve non-edible or even industrial-grade illegal substances, and are even more worried that their children’s health may have been damaged for a long time. According to local reports in China, a parent originally took his child to undergo testing at Tianshui Community Hospital. The test value was more than 200 micrograms/liter, and then the collective inspection staff called to inform the test value was more than 20 micrograms/liter. Due to concerns about the fraud of local hospital inspection data, many parents sent their children to Xi’an Central Hospital for blood lead re-examination at their own expense, and the test value was as high as more than 400 micrograms/liter.

The table comparison shows that many parts of the local test values in Gansu have been significantly lowered. Photo: Photo from Weibo

(Shadow) More than 200 young children in Tianshui, Gansu have “exceeded the standard of blood lead”! Parents seeking help across provinces were tampered with data and blocked their accounts | China — The table comparison shows that many parts of the local test values in Gansu have been significantly lowered. Photo: Photo from Weibo

The situation not only happened in a kindergarten, local parents were worried and also took their children to cross-provincial testing. Unexpectedly, on July 5, local officials in Gansu rushed to Xi’an. It is rumored that the hospital was asked to “unified” the test results and lower the data, which caused strong dissatisfaction and boycott of the family present. Some parents revealed that Tianshui City officials threatened parents with financial pressure. If their children stay in Xi’an for treatment, they would have to bear the medical expenses at their own expense; if they want free treatment, they must return to the designated medical institution in Tianshui. Some local Communist cadres even called “congratulations” to their parents, saying that Xi’an hospital is for profit and the data is inaccurate; although Xi’an has specially opened a clinic to receive school children from Tianshui City for blood lead testing, some parents have protested that the test results have not been released for a long time, resulting in the child being unable to be admitted to the hospital for treatment according to the procedure.

After the incident continued to spread, several parents who insisted on speaking out said that they received a call from the police and were asked to delete the community video and said that the case was only for the behavior of individual kindergarten operators, “I believe in the government and law enforcement agencies serve the people.” There were also a large number of uniformed police officers and plainclothes maintenance reports at the kindergarten gate. In a video circulating on the Internet, a father took a report of blood lead in his child and complained: “I don’t know what 232 μg/L means to a child, I just want to know how to save him.” The video was reposted in large quantities, and netizens also commented that according to the medical community, if blood lead exceeds 50 micrograms/liter, the average IQ will drop by about 7 to 10 minutes; if more than 100 micrograms/liter may cause permanent damage to the nervous system, and lead removal treatment is required immediately.

Parents of students compiled school children's excessive data and testing locations in WeChat groups. Picture: Reprinted from X — Parents of students compiled school children’s excessive data and testing locations in WeChat groups. Picture: Reprinted from X

In addition, some netizens found that the principal of the kindergarten involved is a member of the Revolutionary Committee of the Kuomintang (Democratic Revolution) of China. It also operates three other kindergartens in Maiji District. The tuition fees are all not low, and the annual payment fee is as high as more than 10,000 yuan. After the incident broke out, the official website of the China Democratic League has removed its relevant reports, which has caused speculation from the outside world that the park has a close relationship with local power.Press the message“It may also be this relationship that drives the backstage.

The Tianshui Municipal Government held a press conference yesterday (6th) and stated that after investigation, the reason for the excess blood lead in children was that the additives of “three-color hair cakes” and “corn sausage rolls” in the food exceeded the standard. According to CCTV, local relevant experts and relevant departments have formed a joint working group and are conducting investigation and traceability, medical insurance and investigation and disposal. The person in charge of the kindergarten involved has been filed for investigation and will be held accountable for the relevant units with supervision responsibilities. According to Xinhua News Agency, more than 200 test samples have been sent to the Gansu Provincial Disease Control Department for re-examination.

A private kindergarten in Maiji District, Tianshui City, Gansu, China recently reported a large-scale blood lead exceeding the standard. Picture: Reprinted from X

Kraft Heinz to Eliminate Artificial food Dyes by 2027

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Kraft Heinz to Eliminate Artificial food Dyes by 2027

Kraft Heinz, a major food and beverage company known for products like Kraft Mac and Cheese, Heinz ketchup, Kool-Aid, and Jell-O, has announced it will eliminate all artificial food dyes from its product lines in the United States by the close of 2027.

In a press release dated June 17,the company stated that nearly 90% of its products are already free of Food,Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors,also known as artificial or synthetic food dyes. The remaining 10% will be reformulated, and the company will cease launching any new products containing these dyes instantly.

Did You Know?

The global natural food colors market is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2028, driven by increasing consumer demand for clean-label products. Global Market Insights

These FD&C dyes are currently permitted for use in food and beverage products under U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines.However, in April, Health Secretary robert F. kennedy Jr. indicated that the agency is considering revoking approval for at least eight “petroleum-based synthetic dyes” in favor of “natural alternatives.”

Kraft Heinz plans to replace the dyes with natural alternatives or “reinvent” new colors and shades for products where direct natural replacements are not feasible.

“As a food company with a 150+ year heritage, we are continuously evolving our recipes, products, and portfolio to deliver superiority to consumers and customers,” said Pedro Navio, North America President at Kraft Heinz. “The vast majority of our products use natural or no colors,and we’ve been on a journey to reduce our use of FD&C colors across the remainder of our portfolio.”

Kennedy praised the decision in a June 17 post on X, formerly Twitter, noting that this “voluntary step” will phase out “harmful dyes” in brands like Kool-Aid, Jell-O, and Crystal Light.

FDA Considers banning Artificial Food dyes

The FDA announced on April 22 that it intends to “phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply” by the end of 2026.These dyes were previously allowed under FDA regulations.

The additives under scrutiny include Red Dye 40, Yellow Dye 5, Yellow dye 6, Blue Dye 1, Blue Dye 2, Green Dye 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B.

No formal legislation has been enacted to officially ban these substances. Instead, HHS and the FDA have a “mutual understanding” with the food industry that the dyes will be progressively removed, according to Kennedy.

During an April 22 press conference,FDA commissioner Marty Makary stated that the agency plans to revoke approval for some dyes and collaborate with industry leaders to substitute petrochemical dyes with “natural” alternatives. A press statement from the FDA also indicated plans to establish a “national standard and timeline for the transition from petrochemical-based dyes to natural alternatives.”

The FDA will authorize four new natural color additives and expedite the approval of others,according to its statement. the agency will also partner with the National Institutes of Health to research the effects of food additives on children’s health and progress.

Other Companies Commit to Eliminating Artificial Dyes

Several major food and beverage companies have recently announced plans to remove artificial ingredients following the HHS announcement.

During an April 24 earnings call, PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said the company’s transition away from artificial colors was underway, with over 60 percent of its business already compliant. Brands like Lays, Doritos, and Tostitos will cease using artificial colors by the end of the year.

Tyson Foods made a similar commitment in May, stating it was “proactively reformulating” products to eliminate petroleum-based synthetic dyes by the end of the month. Mars, Inc., the producer of Skittles, also announced in late May that it would remove titanium dioxide from the colorful candy.

The Shift Towards Natural Food Dyes: An Evergreen Outlook

the movement away from artificial food dyes reflects a broader trend towards cleaner labels and healthier food options. Consumers are increasingly aware of the potential health impacts of artificial additives, driving demand for natural alternatives. this shift is not only influencing product formulations but also prompting regulatory bodies to re-evaluate the safety and usage of synthetic dyes.

The history of food dyes dates back centuries, with early dyes derived from natural sources like plants and insects. However, the advent of synthetic dyes in the late 19th century revolutionized the industry, offering vibrant colors at a lower cost. Over time, concerns about the safety of these synthetic dyes have led to renewed interest in natural colorants derived from sources like fruits, vegetables, and algae.

Pro Tip:

When shopping, check the ingredient lists for natural alternatives like beet juice, turmeric, and spirulina, which are increasingly used as natural food colorings.

The transition to natural food dyes presents challenges,including cost,stability,and color matching.Natural dyes can be more expensive and less stable than their synthetic counterparts, requiring manufacturers to invest in research and development to overcome these hurdles. Despite these challenges, the long-term benefits of meeting consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food products are clear.

Comparison of Artificial and Natural Food Dyes
Feature	Artificial Food Dyes	Natural Food Dyes
Source	Petroleum-based chemicals	Fruits, vegetables, plants, algae
Cost	Lower	Higher
Stability	More stable	Less stable
Color Vibrancy	Highly vibrant	Variable
Health Concerns	Potential health risks	Generally considered safe

Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial Food Dyes

Why are companies removing artificial food dyes?: Companies are responding to consumer demand for cleaner labels and healthier food options, as well as potential regulatory changes regarding the safety of artificial dyes.
What are the potential health concerns associated with artificial food dyes?: Some studies have linked artificial food dyes to hyperactivity in children and potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
What are some common natural alternatives to artificial food dyes?: common natural alternatives include beet juice (red), turmeric (yellow), spirulina (blue), and annatto (orange).
How will the removal of artificial food dyes affect the appearance of food products?: Some products may have slightly different colors or shades as companies work to match the vibrancy of artificial dyes with natural alternatives.
Are natural food dyes always healthier than artificial dyes?: While generally considered safer, some natural dyes can also cause allergic reactions in certain individuals.It’s always important to read ingredient labels carefully.
How can consumers stay informed about changes in food ingredients?: Consumers can stay informed by reading ingredient labels,following news and updates from food companies,and consulting with healthcare professionals or nutritionists.

Disclaimer: This article provides general details and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

What are your thoughts on the removal of artificial food dyes? Will this influence your purchasing decisions? Share your comments below!

Food additives

(Shadow) More than 200 young children in Tianshui, Gansu have “exceeded the standard of blood lead”! Parents seeking help across provinces were tampered with data and blocked their accounts | China

Kraft Heinz Dyes Out: No Artificial Colors by 2027

Kraft Heinz to Eliminate Artificial food Dyes by 2027

FDA Considers banning Artificial Food dyes

Other Companies Commit to Eliminating Artificial Dyes

The Shift Towards Natural Food Dyes: An Evergreen Outlook

Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial Food Dyes