Tag: Natural gelatin

According to recent reports, Kraft Heinz, the company that owns Jell-O, has committed to removing all synthetic dyes from its products, including Jell-O, by the end of 2027. This means that while traditional Jell-O still contains artificial colors, a future version will not. An earlier product line, Jell-O Simply Good, was temporarily available and featured real fruit juice instead of artificial dyes.

Gelatin is a staple in many kitchens, yet few know that a gelatin-like substance naturally occurs in fish. While the gelatin sold in stores is a processed animal byproduct, a similar gelling effect happens in fish through the breakdown of its connective tissue. Understanding this difference is key for home cooks, dietary considerations, and anyone interested in food science.

Over 300,000 metric tons of gelatin are produced worldwide each year, and it is a pure protein derived from the fibrous connective tissue of animals. Knowing **what is natural gelatin made of** is crucial for anyone with dietary restrictions or specific nutritional preferences, as its animal-based origins are fundamental to its composition. This article explores the raw materials, the manufacturing process, and how it differs from plant-based gelling agents.

Collagen makes up approximately one-third of the total protein content in the human body and an even greater percentage in animals. This fibrous structural protein, found in connective tissues, is the natural source from which gelatin is derived. In essence, gelatin is cooked collagen, produced by breaking down the complex triple-helix structure of its parent protein through heat.

In a 2025 announcement, Kraft Heinz committed to removing all synthetic food colors from its Jell-O products by 2027. For those needing to know what Jell-O doesn't have red dye right now, a few specific products and several DIY approaches offer safe and delicious alternatives.