Kraft Drops Artificial Color From Mac And Cheese

(RTTNews) - Kraft Foods Group, Inc. (KRFT) said Monday that Original Kraft Macaroni & Cheese in the U.S. will be made without artificial preservatives or synthetic colors, starting in January 2016.

The Northfield, Illinois-based company also said it will remove synthetic colors from its Kraft Dinner products in Canada by the end of next year.

The food giant said it will replace the synthetic colors with those derived from natural sources like paprika, annatto and turmeric.

"We've met with families in their homes and watched them prepare Kraft Mac & Cheese in their kitchens. They told us they want to feel good about the foods they eat and serve their families, including everything from improved nutrition to simpler ingredients," said Triona Schmelter, Kraft Vice President of Marketing, Meals. "They also told us they won't compromise on the taste of their Mac & Cheese - and neither will we. That's why we've been working tirelessly to find the right recipe that our fans will love."

Kraft has already reduced sodium and saturated fats, and removed the synthetic colors from its Mac & Cheese Boxed Shapes.

Kraft joins a host of big food companies including Nestle and Hershey Co. (HSY), which have recently announced steps to remove artificial colors from their products.