Campbell’s commits to removing artificial colors by 2026

USA – The Campbell’s Company has announced a sweeping reformulation initiative to eliminate all artificial FD&C (Food, Drug & Cosmetic) colors from its product portfolio by the second half of fiscal 2026, aligning with growing consumer demand for cleaner, more recognizable ingredients.

The move will impact a wide range of products across Campbell’s diverse brand ecosystem, including Lance crackers, V8 Splash beverages, Archway and Stella D’oro cookies, as well as regional snack labels such as Jay’s, O-Ke-Doke, and Tom’s.

These products will transition to natural coloring agents such as annatto and purple carrot juice concentrate, replacing synthetic dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5.

While many of Campbell’s flagship items, such as Goldfish crackers, have long used plant-based colors, this reformulation marks the final phase of a company-wide shift toward natural ingredients.

Goldfish crackers, for example, have featured colors sourced from plants for over 15 years.

The company emphasized that the change reflects both consumer preferences and the evolving regulatory landscape.

The reformulation is part of a broader industry trend, with competitors like Kraft Heinz and Grupo Bimbo also pledging to phase out artificial dyes by 2027.

Campbell’s will begin the transition in early 2026, with all FD&C-colored products expected to be off shelves by August as existing inventory clears.

Shoppers will still find their favorite brands, but with colors sourced from natural compounds instead of synthetic ones.

This pledge underscores Campbell’s commitment to innovation and consumer-led product development.

The company, which has been a household name for over 155 years, is positioning itself at the forefront of the “better-for-you” movement sweeping the food and beverage industry.

As the reformulation rolls out, Campbell’s will continue to monitor consumer feedback and regulatory shifts, ensuring its products meet both health-conscious expectations and flavor standards.

The transition is expected to strengthen brand loyalty and appeal to younger, ingredient-savvy consumers who prioritize transparency and wellness.

With this bold step, Campbell’s joins a growing chorus of food manufacturers embracing cleaner labels and natural formulation, signaling a new era for legacy brands in the modern marketplace.

Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.