Campbell’s announced it will eliminate synthetic food dyes from all its products by the second half of 2026, replacing them with colors from natural sources.The change will affect popular items including Lance crackers, V8 Splash, and regional snack brands, which will soon use ingredients like annatto and purple carrot juice concentrate.The move follows shifting consumer demand for simpler, recognizable ingredients and aligns with broader industry changes as companies move away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes.
Campbell’s is joining the chorus of other major brands doing away with synthetic colors.
On September 3, the brand announced that while it has “used colors derived from natural sources” in the majority of its portfolio “for many years,” it is transitioning away from synthetic colors in its “last few remaining products.” The synthetic colors are expected to be phased out starting in the second half of 2026.
“For more than 155 years, we have made great food that people love. Our company is consumer-led, brand-powered, and food-obsessed,” Campbell’s shared in a statement on its website. “Our commitment to making great food means we adapt to consumer needs and lead with innovation. People want simpler, recognizable ingredients — and we’re responding.”
The company specifically stated that by the second half of its 2026 fiscal year, which falls from March to August, it will no longer produce any of its food or beverages with “FD&C colors,” another way of saying synthetic dyes.
“The transition means that Lance crackers and V8 Splash will use colors derived from natural sources, such as annatto and purple carrot juice concentrate,” it added. “Our regional Snacks brands, such as Jay’s, O-Ke-Doke, and Tom’s, and cookie brands like Archway and Stella D’oro, will also no longer use FD&C colors.”
The company did note that while it’s been actively reviewing its portfolio, it’s also been tracking the “evolving regulatory environment. People are increasingly seeking better-for-you options with simpler, recognizable ingredients. This move reflects both consumer preferences and our commitment to making great food.”
This also likely means they’ve been tracking the Make America Healthy Again movement, spearheaded by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In April, Food & Wine reported on RFK Jr.’s announcement to ban seven petroleum-based synthetic food dyes by the end of 2026. Following that announcement, several major food companies, including Heinz and General Mills, along with dozens of ice cream brands, have committed to phasing out synthetic dyes in their products.
But Campbell’s wants to make it clear that “Using colors derived from natural sources is not new for us. Goldfish crackers have used colors sourced from plants for more than 15 years.” It also noted that “red Goldfish get their color through a mix of beet juice concentrate and paprika extracted from sweet red peppers.” So, really, just expect your V8 Splash to look a little refreshed in 2026.
Dining and Cooking