Walmart has announced plans to remove 11 synthetic dyes and 30 additional ingredients, including preservatives, substitutes, and sweeteners, from its private food brands by January 2027. The changes are set to begin in the coming months across brands such as Great Value and Marketside. “Walmart private brand foods are getting even better,” the company stated, adding, “We’re removing synthetic dyes and 30 other ingredients from all Walmart private brand food items – putting our customers at the heart of every bite.”

The move follows a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services directive in April by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who announced plans to phase out eight artificial dyes from medications and the national food supply by the end of 2026. These include FD&C Blue Nos. 1 and 2, FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, and FD&C Yellow Nos. 5 and 6. Walmart joins companies like General Mills, Kraft Heinz, Hershey’s, PepsiCo, Conagra Brands, Nestle USA, and McCormick & Co., which have also pledged to remove synthetic dyes from products in the coming year.

The 11 synthetic dyes targeted for removal by Walmart include specific colorants, though the full list was not detailed in the statement. “Our customers have told us that they want products made with simpler, more familiar ingredients — and we’ve listened,” said Walmart President and CEO John Furner. He emphasized the company’s commitment to offering affordable food with improved ingredient lists.

Walmart’s wholesale division, Sam’s Club, reported that 96% of its private-label food under Member’s Mark is already free from artificial colors, aspartame, and high-fructose corn syrup, with plans to eliminate these entirely by year-end.