Nestlé USA Announces Plan to Remove Artificial Colors from Food and Beverage Portfolio by 2026
Nestlé USA has revealed its commitment to eliminating artificial colors from its food and beverage products by the middle of 2026. This decision aligns with the company’s efforts to meet consumer demands for more natural ingredients and healthier product options.
Currently, more than 90% of Nestlé’s U.S. portfolio is free from synthetic dyes, with popular brands like Nesquick and DiGiorno leading the way. This initiative follows similar pledges from industry giants like General Mills and Kraft Heinz, who are also working towards removing artificial colors from their offerings.
With the FDA urging companies to voluntarily phase out synthetic dyes by 2027, Nestlé’s proactive approach sets a new standard for the industry. The company has been gradually reducing artificial colors from its products over the past decade and is now committed to accelerating this process.
Nestlé USA CEO Marty Thompson emphasized the company’s dedication to meeting evolving consumer preferences and nutritional needs. He stated, “As their diverse dietary preferences and nutritional needs evolve, we evolve with them.”
While the FDA’s push to eliminate artificial dyes is voluntary, companies like Nestlé are taking proactive steps to stay ahead of regulatory changes. The industry recognizes the importance of transitioning to natural ingredients but also acknowledges the challenges, such as sourcing reliable supplies and adapting to new formulations.
Meanwhile, individual states are taking their own measures to regulate food dyes, with initiatives like West Virginia’s ban on seven food dyes and Texas’s requirement for warning labels on certain ingredients. These actions reflect a growing awareness of the impact artificial colors can have on consumer health.