Kraft Foods Group on April 20 announced its classic Original Kraft Macaroni & Cheese in the U.S. will no longer be made with artificial preservatives or synthetic colors starting in January 2016. Likewise, Kraft in Canada will remove synthetic colors by the end of next year in its Kraft Dinner Original.
Kraft will replace the synthetic colors with those derived from natural sources, such as paprika, annatto and turmeric.
Last year in the U.S., Kraft launched Mac & Cheese Boxed Shapes, which are targeted at children, with no synthetic colors, as well as 6g of whole grains per serving, a 25 percent reduction in saturated fat and 100mg less sodium per serving. Similar improvements were made in the Canadian product.
Earlier this year, Boxed Shapes in the U.S. moved to no artificial preservatives. All Boxed Shapes have no artificial flavors, preservatives or synthetic colors.
"Families … 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, vice president of marketing for meals. "They also told us they won't compromise on the taste of their Mac & Cheese – and neither will we."
