(NewsNation) — Welch’s Fruit Snacks is rolling out a recipe makeover after the snack brand announced plans to remove all synthetic dyes from its product lineup by early 2026.
Welch’s parent company, PIM Brands, announced the shift from synthetic dyes to coloring from natural sources on July 14. Starting this month, shoppers will be able to put the new coloring formulas to the flavor test with a handful of the brand’s revamped products already hitting store shelves, including its Mixed Fruit and Berries ‘n Cherries flavors.
Not all brands are on board with ditching synthetic dyes
What are synthetic food dyes?
According to Consumer Reports, synthetic dyes are a group of chemicals derived from petroleum, often added by companies into foods and drinks with the goal of making the products more visually appealing. However, some research in recent years has linked the dyes to behavioral health issues in children and other potential health risks.
Synthetic dyes such as Red 40 and Blue 1 — both of which are heavily regulated and even banned in parts of Europe — are being cut from Welch’s Fruit Snacks recipes, according to Bloomberg.
1 in 5 food and drink products contain synthetic dyes in US, study finds
What’s driving the shift in regulations?
The use of synthetic dyes has come under increased scrutiny in recent months, as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy seeks to remove them entirely from U.S. food supplies because of potential health risks.
In April, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration outlined a series of measures to begin phasing out synthetic dyes, targeting six dyes, including Red 40 and Blue 1.
US ice cream makers say they’ll stop using artificial dyes by 2028
What’s the process for removing synthetic food dyes?
The process for removing synthetic dyes in foods and drinks is not a quick one. PIM Brands Chief Marketing Officer Jason Levine said the journey for Welch’s Fruit Snacks began over a decade ago, in 2015.
A June study of roughly 40,000 grocery items found that about 1 in 5 packaged foods and drinks in the U.S. contain synthetic dyes.
Part of the lag is because natural color dyes break down faster than synthetic dyes. There is also the curb appeal concern, as synthetic dyes make the products appear more vibrant.
Despite the long road, other brands are joining Welch’s in making the transition away from synthetic dyes over the next few years, including Kraft Heinz, General Mills and Nestle.
