Major Reformulation Across Store Brands

Walmart announced plans to eliminate synthetic dyes and 30 other additives—including preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and fat substitutes—from its store brands by January 2027. This reformulation will impact approximately 1,000 products, including salty snacks, baked goods, power drinks, salad dressings, and frosting. The initiative primarily affects Walmart’s largest private-label food brand, Great Value, with changes also expected in Marketside, Freshness Guaranteed, and Bettergoods lines.

Addressing Consumer Demand and Regulatory Scrutiny

The move reflects growing consumer demand for cleaner labels and increased government scrutiny of food ingredients. Walmart’s senior vice president noted that 90% of its private-label foods currently do not contain synthetic dyes. The company cited the availability of natural alternatives as a key factor in implementing the changes without compromising product taste or affordability.

Challenges and Implementation Timeline

Replacing synthetic additives with natural alternatives requires careful testing, especially for shelf-stable and refrigerated products. Walmart plans to roll out reformulated items gradually, ensuring taste and quality remain consistent. The company emphasised that the announcement accelerates a process it has been implementing over the past few years, responding to customer feedback and regulatory attention.

Source: Economic Times