In-N-Out's Shift to Natural Ingredients
For years, fans of In-N-Out's classic pink lemonade often questioned its vibrant hue and the presence of artificial dyes like Red 40. Concerns over synthetic additives, particularly their potential link to behavioral issues in children and other health risks, have grown significantly. Responding to these growing concerns and new regulatory pressure from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), In-N-Out announced a significant overhaul of its ingredients in May 2025.
Previously, In-N-Out's Signature Pink Lemonade contained Red 40 as a coloring agent. However, the company confirmed that it has now replaced the synthetic dye with natural alternatives, such as beta carotene and vegetable juice. This change extends beyond the pink lemonade, also affecting the strawberry shakes and the company's ketchup, which is transitioning from high-fructose corn syrup to real cane sugar.
This decision marks a significant step for a major fast-food chain, demonstrating a commitment to ingredient transparency and responding to customer demands for cleaner products. The move aligns with a broader trend in the food industry toward 'clean eating' and prioritizing more natural, less-processed ingredients.
What is Red 40 and What Are the Health Concerns?
Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. It is one of the most widely used artificial color additives in the United States, found in a vast array of processed foods, including candies, cereals, snacks, and beverages. While the FDA has long considered Red 40 safe, it has not reevaluated its safety standards in decades, and a growing body of research and advocacy points to potential health concerns.
Potential health issues associated with Red 40 include:
- Hyperactivity and Behavioral Changes: Some studies have suggested a link between artificial food dyes, including Red 40, and increased hyperactivity in children, particularly those with ADHD. The European Union requires a warning label on products containing this and other synthetic dyes, noting that they "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children".
- Allergic Reactions: In some individuals, Red 40 can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as hives, swelling, and itchiness.
- Potential Carcinogens: While considered safer than the now-banned Red 3 (due to links to cancer in animal studies), Red 40 can contain trace amounts of known carcinogens like benzene. Research on mice has also suggested a potential link to DNA damage and inflammation.
- Nutritional Void: Artificial dyes offer no nutritional value. As some nutritionists argue, their primary purpose is to make processed, often unhealthy, foods more visually appealing.
Navigating Your Fast-Food Choices for a Better Nutrition Diet
Choosing cleaner options is a central part of any responsible nutrition diet. While In-N-Out's removal of Red 40 is a positive step, fast food generally remains high in sugar, fat, and sodium. Making informed decisions involves more than just checking for artificial dyes.
- Choose water or unsweetened tea: The most beneficial beverage option is always water. In-N-Out offers unsweetened iced tea, which provides hydration without added sugar or calories.
- Customize your order: Opt for options like a "Protein-Style" burger (wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun) to significantly reduce carbohydrate intake. You can also request extra vegetables like tomatoes and onions.
- Limit high-sugar options: While the pink lemonade now uses natural coloring, it likely still contains a high amount of added sugar. Be mindful of drinks with high sugar content, including shakes and sodas.
| Feature | Old In-N-Out Pink Lemonade | New In-N-Out Pink Lemonade |
|---|---|---|
| Coloring Agent | Artificial (Red 40) | Natural (Beta Carotene, Vegetable Juice) |
| Sourced From | Petroleum Byproducts | Fruits and Vegetables |
| Perception | Often associated with potential health risks | Generally considered a cleaner, healthier choice |
| Flavor Profile | Depends on the base syrup and flavorings | Depends on the base syrup and flavorings, now with added fruit/vegetable flavor notes |
Conclusion
In-N-Out's decision to remove Red 40 from its pink lemonade and strawberry shakes demonstrates a positive shift in the fast-food industry toward prioritizing ingredient transparency and consumer health. While the answer to "Is there red 40 in In-N-Out pink lemonade?" is now a resounding "no," this change serves as a valuable reminder for consumers to remain vigilant about their food choices. For anyone pursuing a balanced nutrition diet, opting for natural beverages like water or unsweetened tea remains the healthiest option, but In-N-Out's move provides a slightly cleaner alternative for those who still enjoy the occasional sweet treat. This change reflects a broader movement where informed consumers can drive companies toward offering better, more natural ingredients. For more information on food dye regulation, visit the FDA website.
