CALIFORNIA – In-N-Out Burger recently confirmed that it would be removing ingredients from some of its menu items.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to providing our customers with the highest-quality ingredients, we have removed artificial coloring from our Strawberry Shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade. We’re also in the process of transitioning to an upgraded ketchup, which is made with real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup,” an In-N-Out spokesperson told Nation’s Restaurant News.
The news comes following the FDA’s announcement, last month, of a series of new measures to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply and implement new natural color additives.
According to the FDA, more U.S. food manufacturers have committed to removing them within the set time frame of the end of next year.
It appears In-N-Out is one of the first fast-food restaurants to implement the ingredient change following the FDA announcement.
Petroleum-based dyes cause allergic reactions, increased risk of cancer
Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said for too long, the U.S. food system has relied on synthetic, petroleum-based dyes that offer no nutritional value and pose unnecessary health risks.
Petroleum-based synthetic food dyes have been linked to various health concerns, including skin irritation, behavioral changes in children, and increased risk of cancer.
“We’re removing these dyes and approving safe, natural alternatives—to protect families and support healthier choices,” said Kennedy.
Although the FDA has previously considered high-fructose corn syrup safe for consumption, Kennedy said it is a “poison” and a major contributor to the high obesity rates in America.
He says he plans to wean Americans off corn syrup.
