Popular California-based burger chain In-N-Out is taking significant steps to eliminate artificial food dyes from its menu. The announcement comes shortly after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) revealed plans to phase out synthetic dyes in the food supply.
In a statement to “Good Morning America,” In-N-Out confirmed it will stop using synthetic dyes such as Yellow 5 and Red 40. The chain also plans to remove artificial flavors, including artificial vanilla, and the preservative calcium propionate, which is commonly used to prevent mold and browning in baked goods.
The restaurant is also moving away from high-fructose corn syrup in its products, discontinuing sucralose and saccharin sweetener packets, and introducing a non-dairy oat milk creamer. Owner and President Lynsi Snyder said the company is transitioning to ketchup made with real sugar and is researching higher-quality oil for its fries.
Snyder emphasized the company’s commitment to quality: “Providing the freshest, highest-quality foods and services has been my family’s priority since 1948, and it remains mine today. Our customers are number one, and we want them to feel that.”
Key changes planned by In-N-Out include:
Replacing artificial flavors with natural ones in chocolate syrup and hot cocoa.
Using natural vanilla instead of artificial vanilla in shakes.
Substituting calcium propionate with natural enzymes in buns and removing cottonseed oil.
Replacing high-fructose corn syrup with natural sugar in shakes, strawberry syrup, spread, and Signature Pink Lemonade.
Swapping Red 40 for beta carotene and vegetable juice in Strawberry Shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade.
Replacing Yellow 5 with turmeric in chili, pickles, and spread.
Earlier this month, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized synthetic dyes, calling them “synthetic, petroleum-based” with no nutritional value and potential health risks. He stated that the department is working to remove these dyes and approve safer, natural alternatives to protect consumers.
While some critics have long argued synthetic dyes pose health risks, dietitians and nutrition experts remain divided. Some recommend avoiding these additives, while others call for more research.
In-N-Out is not alone in this effort. Tyson Foods also announced plans to reformulate products to remove synthetic dyes. Tyson’s President and CEO Donnie King mentioned this change during a recent earnings call, as reported by Reuters.
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