The Shift Away from Artificial Dyes and Colors
For many years, fast-food chains relied on synthetic food dyes to enhance the visual appeal of their products. This was particularly true for brightly colored items like strawberry milkshakes and pink lemonade. Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, was a common synthetic dye used to achieve a vibrant red hue. However, its use has become increasingly scrutinized due to potential health concerns, including links to hyperactivity in some children.
In early 2025, announcements from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) signaled a move towards phasing out petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the food supply. This prompted In-N-Out Burger to proactively update its menu, with the strawberry shake and pink lemonade being two of the first items to receive an overhaul. A spokesperson for the company confirmed the removal of Red 40, citing their commitment to providing high-quality ingredients.
What's in the New and Improved Strawberry Shake?
Instead of using artificial dyes, In-N-Out has turned to natural sources for coloring its revamped strawberry shake. The new formula incorporates beta carotene and vegetable juice to achieve the familiar pink shade. This change is part of a wider effort by the company to clean up its ingredient list. The company also announced it was replacing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) with real sugar in its strawberry syrup, shake mix, and other products. This move aligns with a broader industry trend toward minimizing the use of highly processed sweeteners.
The Health Implications: Natural vs. Artificial
From a nutritional standpoint, the elimination of Red 40 and HFCS is a positive step. Synthetic food dyes like Red 40 offer no nutritional value and exist solely for cosmetic purposes. For individuals sensitive to these additives, particularly children, the change removes a potential allergen or trigger for behavioral issues. Meanwhile, the swap from HFCS to real sugar, while still a form of added sugar, is a response to the negative health associations linked to high-fructose corn syrup. However, it is important to remember that the shake, with its real ice cream and sugary syrup, remains a high-calorie, high-sugar treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.
In-N-Out's Broader Ingredient Overhaul
This isn't the first time In-N-Out has updated its ingredients. The company has a history of responding to consumer concerns and market shifts. For instance, previous changes included replacing Yellow Dye 5 with turmeric in spreads and condiments, and using natural flavoring instead of artificial vanilla in its shake mix. The May 2025 announcement also covered other products, including a transition to a new ketchup recipe made with real sugar.
What This Means for Consumers
For regular In-N-Out customers, the most noticeable difference will be a subtle change in the shake's color and possibly a slightly different taste profile, though most may not even notice. The shake will now have a softer, more natural pink hue, reflecting its plant-based color sources. For those with sensitivities to artificial dyes, this is a significant improvement that allows them to enjoy the shake without worry. For everyone else, it’s a positive sign of a major fast-food chain taking steps toward offering more transparent and cleaner ingredients.
New and Old Strawberry Shake: A Comparison
To highlight the specific changes, here is a comparison of the key ingredients in the In-N-Out strawberry shake before and after the May 2025 update.
| Feature | Old Strawberry Shake (Pre-May 2025) | New Strawberry Shake (Post-May 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Coloring | Red 40, a synthetic dye | Beta carotene and vegetable juice, natural colorants |
| Sweetener | High-fructose corn syrup in syrup/mix | Natural sugar in syrup/mix |
| Flavoring | Artificial vanilla in shake mix | Natural vanilla in shake mix |
| Ice Cream | Real ice cream | Real ice cream |
| Health Impact | Associated with potential health risks of synthetic dyes | Free of artificial dyes and HFCS, though still a high-sugar item |
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Cleaner Menu
In summary, the answer to the question, Does In-N-Out strawberry shake have Red 40? is a definitive no. This change, implemented in May 2025, reflects a positive move by In-N-Out to remove artificial colors and other synthetic ingredients from its menu, prompted by regulatory shifts and growing consumer demand for cleaner food options. While the shake is now free of artificial dyes and HFCS, it is still a dessert high in calories and sugar. Consumers should continue to view it as an occasional treat rather than a healthy dietary staple. The company’s commitment to providing high-quality ingredients, while still delivering on the classic taste its customers expect, is a promising development in the fast-food industry.
Key Ingredients of the New Shake
- Real Ice Cream: The base of the famous In-N-Out shakes.
- Strawberry Syrup: Now made with natural sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup.
- Natural Coloring: Derived from beta carotene and vegetable juice.
- Natural Vanilla Flavoring: Another recent ingredient update to the shake mix.
For more information on the health impacts of food additives, you can visit the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) website for detailed research and advocacy.
