In-N-Out Burger Introduces Menu Changes

In-N-Out Burger has announced significant changes to its menu, particularly affecting the ingredients in some drinks.

According to a company spokesperson, the California-based fast food chain has eliminated artificial coloring from its popular strawberry shakes and signature pink lemonade. This move is part of their commitment to using higher quality ingredients.

As for which specific dyes have been removed or what they will be replaced with, there’s no clear information yet.

Last month, U.S. health officials, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), announced a ban on petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food. This decision was largely driven by health concerns.

Commonly found in breakfast cereals, candies, and snacks, these dyes have faced scrutiny, particularly because they’re often aimed at children, as noted by the National Library of Medicine.

The FDA has also approved three new natural colors for food: Gardière extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract, and calcium phosphate.

Pena, the spokesperson, mentioned that In-N-Out is in the process of upgrading its ketchup to a version made with real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup.

This shift comes amid discussions on the health implications of sugar. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. labeled sugar as “poison” during the announcement about the dye ban, emphasizing its addictive nature.

Meanwhile, Courtney Swan, a certified dietitian, pointed out that high fructose corn syrup, a processed sweetener derived from corn starch, needs further scrutiny as it is increasingly considered non-food.

The ongoing changes at In-N-Out seem to reflect a broader trend in the food industry focused on ingredient transparency and health considerations.