Walmart to remove synthetic dyes, additives from private label food products

USA – Walmart US is in the process of eliminating synthetic dyes, preservatives, artificial sweeteners and other additives from its private label food and beverage lines.

The retailer confirmed that the reformulated products will be introduced gradually over the next several months, with items that require longer production timelines expected to be on shelves by January 2027.

The changes apply to Walmart’s key in-house food brands, including Great Value, Marketside, Freshness Guaranteed and the recently launched Bettergoods label.

John Furner, president and chief executive officer of Walmart US, said the decision follows customer feedback that emphasized a preference for products with simpler and more familiar ingredients.

According to the company, a survey it conducted in July showed that 62% of shoppers want greater transparency in labeling, while 54% said they actively review ingredient lists before purchase.

Currently, Walmart reports that about 90% of its private label food products already do not contain synthetic dyes, with the upcoming reformulation intended to cover the remainder.

List of ingredients being dropped

Among the dyes set for removal are Blue No. 1 and No. 2, Green No. 3, Red No. 3, No. 4 and No. 40, Yellow No. 5 and No. 6, Citrus Red, Orange B and canthaxanthin.

Titanium dioxide, used to brighten the appearance of foods such as icing, is also being phased out, as are additives such as azodicarbonamide (ADA), propylparaben, calcium bromate, potassium bromate and bromated flour.

Sweeteners including neotame and advantame are on the list of ingredients to be eliminated as well.

Industry and regulatory pressures

Walmart’s move follows wider industry and regulatory efforts to address concerns about food additives in the United States.

The Make America Healthy Again Commission, created during the Trump administration, has repeatedly criticized the use of certain additives in highly processed foods.

Some states have also introduced laws restricting or banning specific ingredients, further prompting companies to make adjustments in their formulations.

Other food manufacturers such as Utz Brands, PepsiCo and Kraft Heinz Co. have announced similar plans to eliminate artificial colors and related additives from their product lines.

Walmart said it expects the changes will allow shoppers to access food options with more recognizable ingredients across a large portion of its private label portfolio.

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