Conagra Brands, recognized for its widely known products such as Duncan Hines and Slim Jim, has announced its commitment to eliminate artificial dyes from its offerings. The company, headquartered in Chicago, stated on Wednesday that it plans to eradicate artificial colors from its line of frozen foods by the conclusion of this year. Among its frozen food brands are Marie Callenderโs, Healthy Choice, and Birds Eye.
In addition, Conagra has revealed intentions to cease providing products with artificial colors to K-12 educational institutions by the start of the 2026-2027 academic year. Further, a comprehensive effort to remove artificial dyes from all its product lines is projected to be in place by the end of 2027.
This move echoes similar commitments recently declared by Kraft Heinz and General Mills. These actions align with increased attention from government bodies regarding the use of artificial colors. Earlier this year, just before President Donald Trump left office, U.S. regulators banned the use of Red 3, a dye known for its possible carcinogenic properties that had already faced restrictions in cosmetics.
Subsequently, in April, efforts were reinforced by Trumpโs Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, who announced plans for phasing out synthetic dyes by the conclusion of 2026. The focus is primarily on encouraging voluntary reform within the food production sector.
Conagra has already incorporated natural dyes into many of its products. For instance, Vlasic kosher pickle spears derive their color from turmeric rather than the synthetic Yellow 5. Similarly, its frozen vegetable sides and Orville Redenbacher popcorn achieve their cheesy hue through annatto, a natural plant extract.
Nevertheless, some products within Conagraโs lineup still incorporate synthetic colors. Duncan Hinesโ Comstock County Cherry pie filling, for instance, uses Red 40. Other products like Duncan Hinesโ Creamy Strawberries nโ Cream Frosting include both Red 40 and Yellow 5, while the Swiss Miss Butterscotch pudding contains Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1.