NewsWFLA News Channel 8August 27, 2026Hillsborough
General Mills removes artificial colors from US cereals by 2027
General Mills has committed to removing all artificial coloring from its U.S. cereal portfolio by the end of 2027, following federal regulatory pressure to phase out synthetic food dyes. The company reports that 90 percent of its U.S. retail products have already transitioned to natural alternatives.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8Why It Matters
This change affects the ingredients in common breakfast cereals consumed by millions of Americans as food manufacturers align with new federal health standards regarding .
Key Facts
- General Mills will remove all artificial coloring from its U.S. cereal portfolio by the end of 2027.
- 90 percent of General Mills' U.S. retail portfolio has already transitioned away from artificial colors.
- The FDA plans to revoke authorization for Citrus Red 2 and Orange B.
- The FDA aims to remove Red Dye 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, and Green No. 3 by the end of 2026.
- General Mills cereal 'Trix' previously contained Red Dye 40, Blue No. 1, and Yellow No. 6.
- Natural alternatives for dyes include beets, algae, crushed insects, purple sweet potatoes, radishes, and red cabbage.
- WK Kellogg Co. announced an accelerated timeline to remove artificial dyes on Aug. 6.
- General Mills plans to launch twice as many new products with increased protein and fiber options.
Who's Mentioned
organizationGeneral Mills“Cereal manufacturer removing artificial dyes.”organizationWK Kellogg Co.“Competitor also removing artificial dyes.”personRobert F. Kennedy Jr.“Health Secretary advocating for the removal of synthetic dyes.”organizationFDA“Federal agency regulating food additives.”personMartin Makary“FDA Commissioner enacting regulations on food dyes.”