JM Smucker Co. to Eliminate Artificial Colors by 2027
On Thursday, JM Smucker Co. announced plans to remove artificial food, drug, and cosmetic (FD&C) colors from all its products by the end of 2027.
In a press release, the company noted that this change will also impact some Hostess products, particularly “sugar-free fruit spreads and ice cream toppings.” They further stated they would collaborate with distribution partners to ensure that products containing these colors will no longer be sold by the 2026/2027 academic year.
CEO Mark Smucker expressed in his statement that the company, with its “128-year history,” has adapted its offerings according to shifting consumer preferences.
“Through our 128-year history, we have successfully evolved our portfolio and product offerings based on changing consumer preferences,” Smucker stated. “Our commitment to removing FD&C colors from sugar-free fruit spreads, ice cream toppings, and sweet baked goods demonstrates our intent to evolve and continuously innovate to meet consumer expectations.”
As previously reported, companies like Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Nestlé are also planning to phase out artificial dyes and colors over the next few years.
This movement to eliminate artificial colors coincides with efforts led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, who has advised food companies to remove these synthetic dyes.
In March, it was reported that at a meeting attended by CEOs from companies like Kellogg, Smucker, and General Mills, the Trump administration emphasized the importance of removing artificial dyes from food.
Kennedy mentioned it was a top priority during this meeting, held in Washington. Further, in April, Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Marty McCurry announced that “petroleum-based food dyes” would be phased out from the U.S. food supply.
The FDA announced intentions to work with the food industry to eliminate several FD&C colors, including Green No. 3, Red 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, and Blue No. 2.
“For too long, some food producers have fed Americans petroleum-based chemicals without knowledge or consent,” Kennedy remarked. “These toxic compounds do not offer nutritional benefits and present real risks to the health and development of children.”
