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Syndication: Detroit Free Press
(Bentonville, AR) — A major change is coming to one of the country’s major retailers. Walmart said it’s going to eliminate synthetic dyes from all its store brand foods and drinks. The move comes after the FDA called on food makers to phase out artificial colors by the end of 2027, as part of Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again.”
At Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, teams are busy reformulating products. Scott Morris oversees Walmart’s private food brands. He tells the Today Show it’s not as easy as using a carrot to make something orange. He says they have eight different test kitchens and there’s not a simple solution to changing colors with every product. Morris’ team of food scientists are working on swapping out artificial colors for store brand cupcakes.
© Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesIn addition, consumer feedback has shown that they don’t need colored cereals to be very vibrant in color. Consumers feel if products use natural colors that aren’t as bright, that’s a healthier way to go.
Hear Greg Kelly Talk About Banning Food Dyes In America:
The FDA says most children are not affected by artificial colors, but a small number might be sensitive. But another big question is- How will this affect a consumer’s wallet? Morris says, “Walmart’s commitment to low costs won’t waiver.” Walmart now joins Pepisco, General Mills and Kraft Heinz which have made similar pledges. In addition, Walmart says its going to remove 30 additional ingredients like preservatives and artificial sweeteners.
