Walmart to remove synthetic dyes from Great Value and more

The nation’s biggest retailer, Walmart, announced recently that it will phase out nearly 30 synthetic dyes, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and fat substitutes from its private-label foods, including Great Value and Bettergoods, by January 2027.

The move responds to growing consumer demand for healthier, simpler ingredients and government pressure to reduce petroleum-based dyes.

A 2021 review by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment connected some food dye consumption to hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral problems in some children.

However, manufacturers maintain that synthetic dyes are tested for safety and make food look visually appealing.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called these additives “poisonous compounds,” and said in April that several food makers will be phasing them out. Since then, General Mills, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, and more have pledged to eliminate artificial coloring.

Walmart says 90% of its private-label foods are already free of synthetic dyes. Executives note the reformulation will affect products like salad dressings, cheese dips, sprinkles, and red velvet cakes.

Natural alternatives such as beetroot, turmeric, and purple carrots would be mostly used.