Capri Sun's Transition to Natural Colors
Concerns regarding artificial dyes in food products have increased. Red Dye 40 is one additive of concern for parents. Kraft Heinz, the parent company of Capri Sun, responded by removing artificial colors and flavors from its US products.
Around 2015, the most significant change occurred. Capri Sun removed artificial ingredients, including Red Dye 40, from US products. The company then used natural sources to color the drinks. This change applies to red-colored products, such as Fruit Punch, and across the range of Capri Sun juice drinks. The drink maintains its original taste and look, with a simpler, natural formulation.
The Role of Natural Ingredients
Capri Sun uses a blend of natural ingredients. Fruit and vegetable concentrates are used for coloring the Fruit Punch flavor. Natural flavors and fruit juice concentrates are used. Natural sweeteners like monk fruit are used in some varieties. The ingredients list is shorter due to the removal of artificial compounds.
Comparing Ingredients: Old vs. New Capri Sun
This table shows the changes between older and newer US Capri Sun recipes.
| Feature | Before 2015 | After 2015 |
|---|---|---|
| Red Dye 40 | Used in red-colored drinks | Not used; US products are dye-free |
| Artificial Dyes | Used depending on flavor | Eliminated from US formulas |
| Color Source | Artificial colorants | Natural sources, such as fruit and vegetable juice concentrates |
| Artificial Flavors | Included | Replaced by natural flavorings |
| Artificial Preservatives | Sometimes used | Eliminated; natural preservatives are used |
| High-Fructose Corn Syrup | Used as a sweetener | Replaced by sugar and natural sweeteners |
Flavor-Specific Coloring Agents
While all US Capri Sun products use natural ingredients, the specific color source varies by flavor.
- Fruit Punch: Red color from fruit and vegetable juice concentrates, replacing Red Dye 40.
- Strawberry Kiwi: Uses fruit and vegetable juices for color.
- Orange: Orange color from fruit juice concentrates and natural flavorings.
This allows consumers to know the colors come from nature. Transparency in the ingredients reflects a trend toward 'clean label' products.
Conclusion: A Choice for Consumers
All US Capri Sun products made after 2015 are red dye free. The company removed artificial colors, flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup, responding to consumer preferences. The taste is achieved using coloring from natural sources. This makes Capri Sun a good choice for parents who limit additives.
FAQs
Does Capri Sun Fruit Punch contain Red Dye 40?
No, Capri Sun Fruit Punch in the US does not contain Red Dye 40. Artificial dyes were removed in 2015.
What does Capri Sun use for color instead of artificial dyes?
Capri Sun uses fruit and vegetable juices to color its drinks.
When did Capri Sun remove artificial colors?
Capri Sun in the US removed artificial colors and preservatives around 2015.
Are all Capri Sun flavors free of artificial colors?
Yes, all Capri Sun juice drinks in the US are free of artificial colors.
What is Red Dye 40 and why do people avoid it?
Red Dye 40 is a synthetic color additive. Some avoid it due to concerns about hyperactivity.
Does international Capri Sun also have no artificial colors?
Formulations can vary by country. Check local product packaging.
Does Capri Sun contain high-fructose corn syrup?
No, Capri Sun products no longer contain high-fructose corn syrup.
