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In-N-Out Burger said it has removed artificial coloring from two of its popular drinks, a shift that comes amid growing regulatory pressure on synthetic dyes and renewed consumer interest in simpler ingredient lists. The change affects the chain’s Strawberry Shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade, the company told reporters, and the restaurant also plans to replace high-fructose corn syrup in its ketchup with real sugar.
What the change means for customers
The move signals a broader industry response to recent action by federal health agencies targeting petroleum-based synthetic food dyes. For diners, the most immediate effects will likely be cosmetic—color differences in familiar menu items—and, potentially, subtle shifts in flavor if natural color sources or new sweeteners are introduced.
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In-N-Out confirmed the update through a company spokesperson, but did not specify which artificial colorants were removed or whether new natural colorings will be used in their place. That leaves open questions about appearance, taste and shelf life that customers may notice when they next order a shake or lemonade.
Regulatory context and industry reaction
Federal regulators have recently moved to restrict certain petroleum-derived dyes used widely across the food supply. The Food and Drug Administration has also authorized several natural color options, while public-health officials have drawn fresh attention to additives and sweeteners in processed foods.
Food manufacturers and restaurant chains are already adjusting recipes and labels in response. Some companies have announced plans to eliminate synthetic dyes or to reformulate products to use natural alternatives and different sweeteners, a trend that could accelerate as regulators and retailers prioritize cleaner ingredient lists.
- Products affected: In-N-Out’s Strawberry Shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade.
- Condiment update: Ketchup formulation shifting from high-fructose corn syrup to real sugar.
- Regulatory backdrop: Recent federal action targets petroleum-based synthetic dyes; FDA has approved several natural-source color additives.
- Unknowns: Specific dyes removed and any replacement colorings have not been disclosed.
Nutrition and consumer perspectives
Nutrition experts have long debated the health implications of synthetic colors and ultra-processed sweeteners. Critics argue that some artificial dyes can pose risks for sensitive populations, particularly children, while others point to the broader health effects of highly processed sugars.
Certified nutritionist Courtney Swan described high-fructose corn syrup as a heavily processed sweetener that differs substantially from whole-food sugars. For consumers watching ingredients, the ketchup change may matter as much as the removal of artificial coloring.
What to expect next
Shoppers should look for updated labeling at restaurants and on packaged foods as companies roll out reformulations. If In-N-Out uses natural pigments—such as plant extracts or mineral-based colors—expect visual differences in shade and possibly price or shelf-life adjustments over time.
For now, the company’s confirmation adds to a string of recent industry moves away from synthetic additives, and signals that even established chains are preparing for changing regulatory and consumer expectations.
Questions remain about which specific additives were dropped and whether those changes will be permanent. In-N-Out says further details are coming as it completes the transition.
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