Concerned Americans are cheering that they will no longer be forced to poison themselves with artificial chemicals linked to cancer and behavioral problems in children.
Specifically, food giant Kraft Heinz announced it will eliminate FD&C artificial dyes from its U.S. products by 2027.
The move follows pressure from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as part of the Make America Healthy Again initiative.
About 10% of Kraft Heinz’s U.S. products currently contain these petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including popular items like Crystal Light, Kool-Aid, MiO, Jell-O, and Jet-Puffed marshmallows.
The company has committed to not launching any new products containing these artificial colors in the American market as it works toward the 2027 deadline.
The FDA plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes by the end of next year, replacing them with natural alternatives.
This includes the elimination of controversial additives like red dye 40 and yellow dye 5. This is not the first time Kraft Heinz has removed artificial ingredients from its products.
In 2016, the company eliminated artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors from its iconic Kraft macaroni and cheese. Notably, Heinz ketchup has never contained artificial dyes.
The decision comes after pressure from the FDA and Department of Health and Human Services to reduce artificial dyes.
An informal understanding between the FDA and the food industry to remove artificial dyes was reportedly discussed during a meeting with top food executives.
The meeting suggests government agencies are finally taking action after decades of allowing these chemicals in the food supply.
Kraft Heinz claims it has made over 1,000 recipe changes in the past five years to improve product nutrition.
The company emphasizes its commitment to providing nutritious, affordable, and great-tasting food.
However, critics question why it took external pressure from regulatory agencies to make this particular change.
Parents who have had to scrutinize food labels to protect their children from these questionable ingredients will welcome this change, but many are asking why it will take until 2027 to complete the transition.
With growing evidence linking artificial food dyes to behavioral problems in children and other health concerns, American families deserve immediate action.
