PepsiCo Tackles Dye Removal Challenge: What It Means for Sustainability in Northwest Arkansas

Pepsi faces a big task: switching their colorful snacks and drinks to natural dyes. Many people in the U.S. are saying goodbye to artificial colors. In fact, about 40% of PepsiCo’s products still use these synthetic dyes.

In April, the company announced that it’s speeding up efforts to replace them with natural ones. However, this won’t happen overnight. Finding stable, safe natural alternatives takes time. PepsiCo hasn’t promised to meet the 2026 goal of phasing out synthetic dyes but aims to get it right.

Chris Coleman from PepsiCo highlighted the challenge. It might take two to three years to change a product’s color. The new natural ingredients must match in color and not change the taste.

Brands like Tostitos and Lay’s are leading the charge with natural dyes expected soon. For instance, Tostitos Salsa Verde, previously colored with artificial dyes, will now use carob powder.

Ingredients like paprika and turmeric are being tested for snacks like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, while colorful fruits and veggies like purple sweet potatoes are in the mix for drinks. Damien Browne, a development executive at PepsiCo, emphasized how crucial color is for customer recognition.

PepsiCo has a history with dyes. When it started in 1902, it took pride in its natural ingredients. Over the years, vibrant synthetic dyes became popular for being cheaper and consistent. However, a noticeable shift began over 20 years ago as consumers demanded no artificial ingredients.

An internal study found that over half of consumers now want to avoid artificial colors. Some states, like West Virginia and Arizona, even banned synthetic dyes in schools. The FDA is responding by speeding up the approval of natural additives, recently green-lighting several new options. But some artificial dyes, like Red 40, continue to be widely used. About 26,000 products still contain it.

While research shows synthetic dyes are mostly safe, public perception plays a huge role in PepsiCo’s decisions. Some consumers are open to change, while others are attached to their favorites, showing a split in opinions. A recent survey revealed a drop in sales of products labeled as free from artificial colors due to higher prices.

A small business owner expressed mixed feelings. She appreciated the move to stop using synthetic dyes but wanted the taste and texture she loved.

PepsiCo aims for a balance—keeping the look and flavor people enjoy while addressing health trends. “It’s about the science, ingredients, and a bit of magic,” Amanda Grzeda from PepsiCo noted.

For more details on the ongoing changes in food dye regulations, you can refer to the FDA’s updates.

By adapting to this demand, PepsiCo can maintain its popularity while also paying attention to what people truly want in their snacks and beverages.

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