In-N-Out, a renowned hamburger chain, has announced that they will be removing artificial colors from some of their food and beverage items. This decision comes after federal regulatory agencies declared a ban on several synthetic colors and plans to collaborate with enterprises to encourage voluntary elimination of the remaining artificial colors.
Owner and President of In-N-Out, Lynsi Snyder, informed reporters via email on the 16th that the company will be eliminating Red No. 40 artificial color from their strawberry milkshakes and pink lemonade. These beverages will now utilize natural colorants such as beta-carotene.
Additionally, In-N-Out will be replacing Yellow No. 5 artificial color in their pickles, chili, and signature sauce with turmeric.
Furthermore, the chain plans to offer ketchup without high-fructose corn syrup, opting for sugar instead.
Snyder expressed pride in these improvements, emphasizing In-N-Out’s commitment to providing the freshest and highest quality food.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced last month the prohibition of two synthetic colors in food and beverages, having previously banned Red No. 3.
Officials stated that they will work with companies to encourage voluntary removal of the remaining six artificial colors still permitted for use, including Red No. 40.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. posted on the social platform X on the 15th, “Less than 30 days after the announcement from HHS and FDA to phase out petroleum-based colors from the domestic food supply, the American fast-food chain In-N-Out Burger has proactively decided to remove artificial colors from some menu items.”
He encouraged more businesses to prioritize the health of the American people and participate in the “Let America Get Healthy Again” initiative.
In-N-Out did not respond to queries on whether they plan to further remove artificial colors from other menu items.
Following the FDA announcement, several companies have declared intentions to eliminate artificial colors.
PepsiCo announced that they will be removing colors from brands such as Lays by the end of this year.
CEO Ramon Laguarta stated during an investor call, “Over the next few years, our entire product line will transition to natural colors or at least offer natural color options to consumers.”
Tyson Foods CEO Donnie King, in a separate call, mentioned that the company is focused on eliminating artificial colors, with completion expected by June.
Studies have shown a connection between artificial colors and behavioral issues. For example, a clinical trial involving hundreds of children discovered that artificial colors “result in increased hyperactivity in 3-year-olds and 8/9-year-olds among the general population.”