Hershey Company to Eliminate Artificial Dyes by 2027

The Hershey Company has announced that it will completely remove artificial food dyes from its products by the end of 2027. This decision comes amidst new state regulations on food dyes that complicate production for many companies.

Based in Pennsylvania, Hershey, known for its popular items like Hershey’s chocolate bars and Twizzlers, explained that these regulations create a confusing landscape. A representative stated, “There is an emergence of a patchwork of state regulations that will cause confusion and ultimately increase consumer costs. Removing these colors is a natural next step to ensure that consumers have options that fit their lifestyle while maintaining confidence in our products.”

Recently, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives introduced a bill aimed at banning mainstream food dyes in public schools by July 2027. This move aligns with similar laws passed in other states, including California, and a West Virginia law from 2024 which prohibits the distribution of foods with seven mainstream dyes labeled as “health-toxic or harmful.”

Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently signed a law requiring warning labels for foods containing synthetic dyes and over 40 other artificial ingredients, set to take effect on September 1st.

Hershey is following other major food producers, including Kraft Heinz and General Mills, in efforts to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes. This initiative aligns with the goals of Health and Human Services Director Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. His department aims to eliminate what he describes as harmful dyes, particularly from children’s food.

Kennedy expressed concern, stating, “For too long, some food producers have fed American oil-based chemicals without knowledge or consent. These toxic compounds do not provide nutritional benefits and pose realistic and measurable dangers to children’s health and development. The times are coming to an end.”

Tyson Foods is also planning to stop using synthetic dyes in its products. In May, the FDA approved the use of three natural food dyes as part of a broader plan to phase out artificial dyes by 2026. This approach aligns with European regulations that have long aimed to eliminate chemical dyes.

As of now, Hershey has not commented on this announcement.