
Doritos and Cheetos are getting a makeover.
PepsiCo said Thursday it’s launching toned-down versions of its bright orange snacks that won't have any artificial colors or flavors. Doritos and Cheetos Simply NKD will hit store shelves on Dec. 1.
It’s part of a broader shift underway at PepsiCo, which announced in April that it would accelerate a planned transition to using natural colors in its foods and beverages. Around 40% of its U.S. products now contain synthetic dyes, according to the company.
Dye-free doesn’t mean Doritos and Cheetos Simply NKD will be colorless. Instead, they’re just a lighter color, like a tortilla chip.
Many other big food companies, including Kraft Heinz and General Mills, have made similar pledges. They're feeling pressure from federal regulators and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who are urging companies to eliminate synthetic food dyes by next year.
States have also been taking action. Texas recently passed a law requiring warning labels for foods that contain artificial ingredients. Other states are moving to ban or restrict synthetic dyes.
PepsiCo has sold Simply brand Doritos and Cheetos without artificial dyes since 2002. But those products aren’t designed to taste like the original chips.
The Simply NKD versions are supposed to taste like the originals. But unlike the originals, they don’t contain petroleum-based dyes. They also have shorter ingredient lists.
For example, Simply NKD Doritos and Simply NKD Cheetos don’t contain the flavor-enhancing additives disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate, which are found in the original versions.
“We’re turning expectations upside down — removing artificial colors, not the flavor — and proving that unforgettable taste can be colorless,” said Rachel Ferdinando, the CEO of PepsiCo Foods U.S., in a statement.
PepsiCo said the Simply NKD line will include flavors like Cool Ranch Doritos and Flamin' Hot Cheetos. The chips will cost the same as original varieties.
The company said original Doritos and Cheetos will also remain on the market.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
More than 3 million eye drops have been recalled from CVS, Walgreens and other national retailers. How to check if yours are safe - 2
The Beginning Of The End For Fossil Fuels Can Start In Colombia - 3
Vote In favor of Your Favored Shimmering Water - 4
Treason trial of South Sudan's suspended VP is further eroding peace deal, UN experts say - 5
Surprise! Saturn's huge moon Titan may not have a buried ocean after all
Must-See Public Parks from Around the Globe
NASA releases stunning new images captured by the Artemis II moon mission, including 'Earthset' and a solar eclipse from space
Rick Steves Recommends This German Town's Castle Hotel With Rhine River Views
Doulas play essential roles in reproductive health care – and more states are beginning to recognize it
Role reversal: Ukraine moves training home and exports the lessons abroad
Palestinians reel under winter rains as Israel blocks Gaza shelter supplies
7 Powerful Techniques to Boost Efficiency with Your Cell Phone: A Thorough Aide
Genetic study identifies earliest-known dog, dating to 15,800 years ago
Most loved Fish Dish: What's Your Sea Pleasure?













