25 Popular Groceries That Could Vanish Under RFK Jr.’s Food Dye Crackdown

Culture & Society
By Aria Moore

Amid RFK Jr.’s proposed crackdown on artificial food dyes, many beloved grocery items might face disappearance. This list highlights 25 popular products that could potentially vanish if the regulations are enforced.

Each item is known for its vibrant colors, which are often achieved through artificial dyes. From snacks to beverages, these products have been favorites for many, and their removal could significantly impact consumers’ shopping habits.

1. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos

© Teen Vogue

Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have become a cultural phenomenon, with their intense heat and vibrant red-orange hue. This snack’s bold flavor is matched by its equally bold color, achieved through artificial dyes. Fans of spicy snacks adore its fiery kick, making it a staple in many households. Whether eaten alone or added to recipes for an extra crunch, these chips have won the hearts of many. However, under RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, the iconic appearance that defines Flamin’ Hot Cheetos may be at risk, leaving fans searching for alternatives.

2. Skittles

© Walmart

Skittles, with the tagline ‘Taste the Rainbow,’ are known for their colorful, chewy candies that delight the taste buds. Each vibrant color represents a different fruit flavor, bringing joy to candy lovers. The iconic rainbow is made using a variety of artificial dyes, making them a potential target under RFK Jr.’s proposed regulations. As a favorite in candy dishes and Halloween treats, Skittles’ disappearance would leave a void for those who crave their fruity flavors and bright appearance.

3. M&M’s

© Oh! Nuts

M&M’s are classic candies that boast a hard shell in a variety of colors, made using artificial dyes. Known for their slogan, ‘Melts in your mouth, not in your hand,’ these candies have been a favorite for generations. The array of colors makes them perfect for decorating desserts or enjoying by the handful. However, the vivid hues that make M&M’s so appealing could be jeopardized by RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, potentially changing the candy’s visual appeal.

4. Gatorade (various flavors)

© Costco Business Center

Gatorade is a go-to sports drink for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, known for its hydration benefits and wide range of flavors. The drink’s vibrant colors, achieved through artificial dyes, signify different flavors from lemon-lime to glacier freeze. These eye-catching hues could be at risk under RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, potentially altering the visual identity of a drink that has become synonymous with sports and endurance.

5. Kool-Aid

© Amazon.com

Kool-Aid has long been a favorite for those seeking a sugary, flavorful drink. Known for its wide spectrum of bright colors, each packet promises a different fruity adventure. Kids and adults alike enjoy crafting unique flavor mixes, creating a custom beverage experience. The iconic colors are due to artificial dyes, making Kool-Aid a significant contender for removal under proposed regulations. Such a change could transform the quintessential summer drink tradition.

6. Fruit Roll-Ups

© General Mills Foodservice

Fruit Roll-Ups have delighted children with their vibrant colors and sweet flavors. The appeal lies in not only the taste but also the playful nature of unrolling and enjoying this treat. These fruit-flavored snacks get their bright appearance from artificial dyes. Under RFK Jr.’s food dye ban, Fruit Roll-Ups may lose their signature look, which could affect their popularity among kids who love their fun and colorful aspect.

7. Trix Cereal

© People.com

Trix Cereal is a breakfast staple that brings a burst of color and fruity flavor to the morning routine. Known for its fruit-shaped pieces, this cereal uses vibrant artificial dyes to capture the attention of young eaters. ‘Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids!’ has been the slogan accompanying these colorful grains. The potential removal of artificial dyes could result in a visual transformation, possibly altering the morning ritual for many families.

8. Froot Loops

© Bloomberg

Froot Loops are a beloved cereal known for their bright, fruit-flavored rings. The colorful loops are a result of various artificial dyes, creating a rainbow in every bowl. This cereal has been a breakfast favorite for its sweet taste and eye-catching appearance. RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown might challenge its vibrant look, leading to changes that could impact the cereal’s appeal to children and nostalgic adults.

9. Jell-O

© Glorious Treats

Jell-O, the wobbly dessert enjoyed by many, is famed for its vivid colors and flavors. From cherry red to lime green, each Jell-O cup brings a splash of color to the table. These colors are derived from artificial dyes, which could be banned under new regulations. Losing these colors might impact Jell-O’s visual charm, potentially affecting its popularity as a fun treat for kids and a nostalgic dessert for adults.

10. Lunchables

© Instacart

Lunchables provide a convenient meal option, featuring a variety of crackers, cheeses, and meats. The inclusion of a sweet treat or drink often showcases bright colors, thanks to artificial dyes. These dyes contribute to the appeal of Lunchables, making them a hit among children for school lunches. However, under RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, the colors that make Lunchables exciting may be scrutinized, impacting their attractiveness to young consumers.

11. Doritos Nacho Cheese

© Los Angeles Magazine

Doritos Nacho Cheese chips are renowned for their bold cheesy flavor and distinct bright orange appearance. The intense color is achieved through artificial dyes, making them visually appetizing and easily recognizable. These chips have become a party staple, known for their satisfying crunch and flavor. With the crackdown on food dyes, Doritos Nacho Cheese could see changes in their iconic look, which might affect their appeal to snack lovers.

12. Mountain Dew Code Red

© Walmart

Mountain Dew Code Red offers a unique twist on the classic Mountain Dew, featuring a cherry flavor and a striking red hue. The eye-catching color is the result of artificial dyes, adding to its allure among soda enthusiasts. Known for its bold taste and energizing properties, this beverage has a loyal following. However, the proposed food dye regulations could challenge its vivid appearance, impacting its signature identity and appeal.

13. Betty Crocker Rainbow Chip Frosting

© Amazon.com

Betty Crocker Rainbow Chip Frosting is a favorite for home bakers, known for its creamy texture and colorful chips. The rainbow chips, achieved through artificial dyes, add a playful element to cakes and cupcakes. This frosting brings fun to baking projects, delighting both bakers and those they serve. Under RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, the vibrant chips may face changes, altering the aesthetic joy that this frosting provides.

14. Capri Sun Roarin’ Waters

© Food Service Direct

Capri Sun Roarin’ Waters offers a refreshing drink option with a hint of flavor and a splash of color. Featuring pouches with colorful designs, these beverages are a hit with kids. The subtle hues of the drinks themselves are enhanced by artificial dyes, potentially putting them at risk under new regulations. Changes in appearance could affect the charm of these convenient and hydrating drinks, which have become a lunchbox staple.

15. Pop-Tarts (Tropical Punch & other dyed flavors)

© Aww Sam

Pop-Tarts have been a breakfast and snack favorite for their ease and variety of flavors. The Tropical Punch and other dyed flavors stand out due to their vibrant icing and fillings. These colors are achieved using artificial dyes, making them visually appealing to consumers. The potential restrictions on these dyes could impact the playful aesthetics of Pop-Tarts, altering the breakfast experience for those who enjoy a pop of color in their morning routine.

16. Crystal Light

© Amazon.com

Crystal Light offers a low-calorie beverage option with a burst of flavor and color. The mix, available in various flavors, uses artificial dyes to create appealing colors. Loved for its convenience and taste, Crystal Light is a popular choice for those seeking a flavorful drink without the calories. However, the crackdown on food dyes might affect its vibrant presentation, potentially impacting its appeal to health-conscious consumers.

17. Gushers

© www.gushers.com

Gushers, the fruit snacks filled with juicy centers, delight kids with their vibrant colors and exciting bursts of flavor. The eye-catching appearance is thanks to artificial dyes, making them a target under RFK Jr.’s proposed regulations. Known for their playful texture and sweet taste, Gushers have a dedicated fan base. Changes to their color could affect their visual appeal, impacting their popularity among children and nostalgic adults.

18. Peeps

© Farmers’ Almanac

Peeps, the marshmallow treats shaped like chicks and bunnies, are iconic during holidays like Easter. Their bright colors, achieved through artificial dyes, make them a festive addition to any celebration. Loved for their sweet flavor and fluffy texture, Peeps are a nostalgic treat for many. The proposed crackdown on food dyes might alter their vibrant look, impacting their role as a holiday staple and affecting their charm in seasonal displays.

19. Icee Slush Drinks

© Adobe Stock

Icee Slush Drinks, known for their frosty texture and bold flavors, are a hit in convenience stores. The bright, swirled colors of these frozen beverages are achieved through artificial dyes, attracting consumers seeking a refreshing treat. As a summer favorite, Icee drinks offer a cool escape on hot days. With potential dye restrictions, the visual appeal of Icee Slush Drinks could change, impacting their status as an eye-catching, icy indulgence.

20. Baskin-Robbins Rainbow Sherbet

© Food 4 Less

Baskin-Robbins Rainbow Sherbet is a delightful dessert that combines flavors like raspberry, orange, and lime into a vibrant swirl. The striking colors are due to artificial dyes, making it a target for RFK Jr.’s regulatory proposals. Known for its refreshing taste and eye-catching appearance, this sherbet is a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts. Changes to its colors might alter its visual appeal, affecting its popularity at dessert counters.

21. Lifesavers Gummies

© Life Savers

Lifesavers Gummies offer a chewy alternative to the classic hard candy, with a variety of fruit flavors and bright colors. These gummy rings use artificial dyes to achieve their appealing appearance, making them potential targets for dye regulations. Known for their sweet taste and fun texture, Lifesavers Gummies are popular among candy lovers. Changes to their colors could impact their visual attraction, altering their place in candy bowls and consumers’ hearts.

22. Smarties

© I Got Your Candy

Smarties candies are small, sweet tablets that come in a variety of pastel colors. These colors, achieved through artificial dyes, contribute to their iconic look. Loved for their tangy taste and playful packaging, Smarties are a classic treat. The proposed food dye crackdown could potentially alter their appearance, impacting their charm and nostalgia for those who grew up enjoying these candies.

23. Nerds

© Candy Warehouse

Nerds candy offers a crunchy, sweet experience with its tiny, colorful pieces. Each box contains a mix of flavors and bright colors, achieved using artificial dyes. Known for their unique texture and tangy taste, Nerds have a dedicated following among candy enthusiasts. The potential regulation of food dyes could change their vibrant appearance, affecting their packaging and visual appeal on store shelves.

24. Mike and Ike

© Amazon.com

Mike and Ike candies are known for their chewy texture and variety of flavors, each represented by a different color. The artificial dyes used give these candies their attractive look, making them popular among consumers. With the possibility of dye restrictions, Mike and Ike could face changes that alter their colorful identity, potentially impacting their appeal in the candy aisle.

25. Lucky Charms

© NPR

Lucky Charms cereal is a breakfast favorite, featuring colorful marshmallow shapes mixed with oat pieces. The vibrant marshmallows are made using artificial dyes, creating a visually appealing bowl. Known for their magical themes, Lucky Charms have charmed children and adults alike. Under RFK Jr.’s food dye crackdown, the iconic marshmallow colors might be at risk, changing the cereal’s whimsical allure.