In response to the initiative by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., PepsiCo is swiftly acting to eliminate artificial ingredients from its products. Ramon Laguarta, PepsiCo’s chair and CEO, announced during an April 24 conference call that the company is committed to reducing artificial ingredients, a process already underway as reported by Food Business News.
Laguarta highlighted that over 60% of PepsiCo’s portfolio is free from artificial colors, with the company actively transitioning the remainder. Iconic brands such as Lay’s and Tostitos will be free of artificial colors by the end of this year.
This move aligns with the recent announcement by RFK Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary to ban petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the U.S. food supply. The plan includes establishing a national standard for transitioning to natural alternatives and revoking authorization for certain synthetic food colorings within the coming months. The goal is to eliminate all remaining synthetic dyes by the end of next year.
Certified nutritionist Liana Werner-Gray praised the decision, noting it is a significant victory for public health. Werner-Gray, who eliminated artificial dyes from her diet over 16 years ago, experienced improved health and mood stability after switching to natural alternatives. She advocates for clean, natural food as the norm rather than a luxury.
PepsiCo maintains that its current products are safe, standing by existing scientific standards. Consumers will have the choice to select their preferred options as the transition progresses.
— new from New York Post