Walmart to Remove 40+ Ingredients, Including Synthetic Dyes, by 2023
Walmart, the retail giant, has announced a significant move in response to consumer demand for cleaner food. The company plans to remove over 40 ingredients, including several synthetic food dyes, from its store-brand products by the end of 2023. This affects around 1,000 items, with reformulated products expected to hit shelves in the coming months.
The initiative, led by Walmart's wholesale club division Sam's Club, will see the removal of chemicals like potassium nitrate, potassium nitrite, potassium bisulfite, advantame, and neotame from Member's Mark products. Some of the 11 artificial food dyes detailed by Walmart were already banned, proposed to be banned, or haven't been used for years. The FDA banned Red 3 in 2011 due to potential cancer risks.
Health advocates have welcomed the move, citing concerns about the potential health effects of many of the ingredients on Walmart's list. The federal government is also giving artificial food dyes increased scrutiny. Walmart's commitment extends beyond this year, with plans to remove synthetic food dyes and 30 other ingredients from its U.S. branded products by January 2027.
Walmart's decision to remove these ingredients is a significant step towards cleaner food options. Shoppers can expect to see reformulated products like Great Value cheese dips and Fruit Spins Cereal with natural colors in the coming months. The company's long-term commitment, extending until 2027, demonstrates a serious approach to addressing consumer concerns about additives in food.
