Walmart Joins Effort to Remove Synthetic Food Dyes
Walmart announced on Wednesday that it will eliminate artificial food dyes from its private-label food offerings in the United States by January 2027. This includes popular brands like Great Value and bettergoods, aligning with other companies under pressure from the Donald Trump administration.
Other Major Food Companies Making Similar Changes
Leading food manufacturers such as PepsiCo, Campbell’s, and Conagra Brands have also made similar announcements in recent months, responding to the government’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
Health Concerns Driving the Change
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health, has taken strong measures against processed foods and chemical additives, claiming they have caused a national crisis of childhood obesity, diabetes, cancer, mental health issues, allergies, and neurodevelopmental conditions like autism.
Walmart’s Commitment to Simplifying Ingredients
In addition to removing artificial dyes, Walmart plans to eliminate over 30 ingredients such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and fat substitutes from its private-label offerings.
The company stated that this move reflects consumer demand for simpler and more transparent ingredients. Currently, 90% of Walmart’s private-label foods do not contain artificial dyes.
“Our customers have told us they want products made with simpler, more familiar ingredients, and we’ve listened,” said John Furner, President and CEO of Walmart U.S.
Collaboration with Suppliers
Walmart is working closely with private-label suppliers to adjust formulas and find alternative ingredients. Reformulated products, ranging from canned and frozen foods to cereals and salads, will be available in the coming months.
Walmart’s Private-Label Brands
Walmart’s private-label offerings are led by its primary brand, Great Value, along with other in-store brands like Marketside, Freshness Guaranteed, and the premium bettergoods. These brands have been a significant draw for American consumers seeking affordable options.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Walmart removing from its private-label food offerings? Walmart will eliminate artificial food dyes, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and fat substitutes from its private-label food offerings by 2027.
- Which brands does this change affect? This change affects popular Walmart private-label brands like Great Value, Marketside, Freshness Guaranteed, and bettergoods.
- Why is Walmart making this change? The decision comes in response to consumer demand for simpler, more transparent ingredients and aligns with the government’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
- What is the current status of artificial dyes in Walmart’s private-label foods? Currently, 90% of Walmart’s private-label foods do not contain artificial dyes.
- When will reformulated products be available? Reformulated products, including canned and frozen foods, cereals, and salads, will be available in the coming months.
