The Shift from Artificial Dyes to Natural Colors
For years, the use of artificial food dyes like Red 40 in products like Welch's Fruit Snacks has been a topic of discussion among consumers concerned about food additives. The manufacturer, PIM Brands, has officially listened to this concern and announced a major change: the removal of artificial dyes across its full line of fruit snacks. This transition has been in the works for a decade, with products launched since 2018 already using natural sources for color. This initiative gained speed in 2025 as the company began rolling out reformulated versions of its most popular flavors, including Mixed Fruit, Fruit Punch, and Berries 'n Cherries, ahead of a complete transition by early 2026.
Why the Change? Consumer Demand and Regulation
The move away from synthetic dyes like Red 40 is a direct response to evolving consumer preferences and a growing regulatory landscape. Consumers are increasingly seeking products with fewer artificial ingredients and a clearer ingredient list. This preference has driven numerous major food companies to re-evaluate their use of synthetic additives. Furthermore, heightened scrutiny and potential regulation from agencies like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and state-level actions, such as California's ban on certain dyes in school meals, have pushed the industry toward reformulating products. The long-standing debate over the link between artificial dyes and hyperactivity in children, while not conclusively proven to cause ADHD, has also been a significant factor influencing consumer choices and industry decisions.
What to Look for on the Ingredient Label
During this transition period, it is crucial for consumers to check the packaging to confirm whether the specific product contains Red 40. The older formula for varieties like Mixed Fruit typically lists ingredients such as "red 40, and blue 1". The new formulation, however, will list colors derived from natural sources, such as "annatto (color), turmeric (color), and fruit and vegetable juice (color)".
How to Identify the New, Dye-Free Welch's Gummies
- Check the Front of the Box: New packaging often features an explicit claim like "No Artificial Dyes" or highlights "colors from natural sources".
- Scan the Ingredient List: Read the ingredients carefully, specifically looking for "Red 40" or "FD&C Red No. 40." If these are absent and replaced by natural colorants like "annatto" or "fruit and vegetable juice," the product is the new formula.
- Pay Attention to Batch Numbers: While less common for consumers, larger retail packages may have batch information that distinguishes older inventory from new stock. However, checking the front label and ingredient list is the most reliable method for individual purchases.
A Comparison of Old vs. New Welch's Formulas
| Feature | Old Formula (Contains Dyes) | New Formula (No Artificial Dyes) |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Colors | Contains synthetic dyes like Red 40 and Blue 1. | Uses colors from natural sources like fruit and vegetable juices, annatto, and turmeric. |
| Appearance | Bright, vibrant, and uniform colors from petroleum-based dyes. | Potentially slightly paler or more nuanced color, mimicking natural fruit pigments. |
| Taste | Artificial flavors are used alongside natural ones. | The company states the taste remains consistently delicious. |
| Health Focus | Concerns over hyperactivity in children raised by some advocacy groups. | Aligned with growing consumer demand for cleaner labels and fewer artificial additives. |
| Ingredient Label | Lists "Red 40" and "Blue 1" directly. | Lists natural colorants such as "fruit and vegetable juice (color)". |
| Regulatory Status | Still legal in many areas, but faces increasing scrutiny. | Anticipates and aligns with future regulatory shifts, such as those in California. |
Potential Health Implications of Red 40
Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it for consumption, it remains a controversial ingredient. Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic dyes and adverse behavioral effects in some children, particularly those with ADHD. Countries in the European Union require a warning label on products containing Red 40 stating that it "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". Beyond behavioral concerns, some research has raised questions about potential long-term effects related to inflammation and DNA damage, though further human studies are needed. For individuals with sensitivities or allergies, avoiding Red 40 is a clear choice.
Conclusion
Welch's is in the process of phasing out Red 40 and other artificial dyes from its fruit snacks, with the full transition expected by early 2026. This decision reflects a broader industry trend toward cleaner ingredients driven by consumer demand and evolving regulatory standards. As a result, shoppers will increasingly find dye-free varieties on store shelves. The most reliable way to know if a specific box contains Red 40 is to check the ingredient label for either "Red 40" (in older stock) or natural colorants like "fruit and vegetable juice (color)" (in newer versions). For those seeking to avoid artificial dyes, this change provides a clear path to enjoying Welch's products with natural colorings.
Bloomberg.com provides a detailed article on Welch's move to remove artificial dyes.
