Gatorade And Cheetos Will Phase Out Artificial Dyes in Favor of Natural Colors

Gatorade And Cheetos to Transition to Natural Colors

In a move towards healthier ingredients, Gatorade and Cheetos, famous brands under PepsiCo, have announced a plan to phase out artificial dyes and embrace natural colors in their products. This decision is part of PepsiCo’s broader effort to offer more natural and wholesome options to consumers. Tostitos and Lay’s will be amongst the first PepsiCo brands to make this shift, introducing tortilla and potato chips with natural dye later this year.

PepsiCo currently uses synthetic dyes in around 40% of its products. The company aims to transition most of its product line to natural dyes over the next 2-3 years. By making this change, PepsiCo hopes to cater to the growing consumer demand for clean-label products. The move aligns with a societal shift towards more sustainable and healthy food choices.

The process of swapping out artificial dyes for natural colors involves extensive research and testing. PepsiCo is committed to maintaining the familiar colors and flavours that consumers love while improving the nutritional profile of its snacks. Developing new recipes, obtaining FDA approvals for natural dyes, and ensuring consumer satisfaction are essential steps in this transition.

Recipe developers at PepsiCo are exploring natural ingredients like paprika, turmeric, purple sweet potatoes, and carrots to replace synthetic dyes in a variety of products. These natural alternatives not only provide vibrant colors but also contribute to the health benefits of the snacks. By choosing natural sources for dyes, PepsiCo aims to create visually appealing products that meet consumer preferences.

The decision to phase out artificial dyes comes amidst increasing scrutiny over the use of synthetic additives in food products. Health officials have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with artificial dyes, prompting industry players to rethink their formulations. PepsiCo’s proactive approach to embracing natural colors reflects a commitment to prioritising consumer well-being.

Consumer demand has been a driving force behind PepsiCo’s shift towards natural food coloring. The company has observed a growing interest in products free from artificial dyes and colours over the past two decades. By responding to these evolving preferences, PepsiCo aims to stay ahead of the curve in meeting consumer expectations for healthier and transparent food options.

Other major food companies have also begun phasing out artificial dyes from their products, signalling a broader industry trend towards cleaner ingredient lists. By focusing on natural colours, PepsiCo hopes to strike a balance between flavour and visual appeal. This move underscores the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in response to changing consumer needs.

As PepsiCo continues its journey towards more natural ingredients, the shift towards natural dyes in Gatorade and Cheetos marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing healthier snack options. By prioritising transparency and consumer preferences, PepsiCo aims to set a new standard for the food and beverage industry.