Blue Bell Creameries to Remove Artificial Colors from Ice Cream Products
Blue Bell Creameries, a mainstay in Texas ice cream, announced on X it would drop certified artificial colors from its ice cream products by the end of 2027. This move is part of a wider effort from the International Dairy Foods Association, of which Blue Bell is a part.
The International Dairy Foods Association said dozens of U.S. ice cream companies, which make about 90% of all the ice cream in the country, have pledged to remove certified artificial colors from ice cream products made with real milk by Dec. 31, 2027. Those dyes include Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6.
Reasons Behind the Removal of Artificial Colors
The artificial colors are safe for human use, according to the Food & Drug Administration. However, state laws and potential changes to state laws could create misalignment with federal policies, leading to disruption. That is part of the impetus behind the removal of artificial colors, according to the group representing the dairy manufacturing and marketing industry.
The shift in stance on artificial colors comes as American consumers increasingly seek food and drinks with more natural ingredients. This trend has been driven by growing concerns about the impact of artificial additives on health and the environment.
Flavors Suitable for Those Avoiding Artificial Colors
In its social media post, Blue Bell included flavors “suitable for those avoiding certified artificial colors.” The list from the creamery, based in Brenham, included dozens of ice cream flavors and products, which are below:
Standard Ice Cream Flavors
A&W Root Beer Float
Dr Pepper Float
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Cookies ‘n Cream
Cookie Two Step
Dutch Chocolate
Gooey Butter Cake
Homemade Vanilla
Moo-llenium Crunch
Natural Vanilla Bean
Rocky Road
Strawberries & Homemade Vanilla
The Great Divide
No Sugar Added Ice Cream Flavors
Country Vanilla
Featured Ice Cream Flavors
Banana Pudding
Bride’s Cake
Butter Crunch
Chocolate Brownie Truffle
Chocolate Chip
Chocolate Peanut Butter Overload
Cinnamon Twist
Cookies ‘n Cream Cheesecake
Cookies ‘n Cream Cone
French Vanilla
Homemade in the Shade
Java Jolt
Monster Cookie Dough
Southern Blackberry Cobbler
Tin Roof
Year-Round Market Specific Ice Cream Flavors
Banana Nut
Black Walnut
Coffee
Lemon
Milk Chocolate
Blue Bell Snacks and Sherbet
Dutch and Homemade cups
Fudge Bars
Krunch Bars
Mooo Bars
Pineapple Sherbet
Sundae Cups
3 Gallon Ice Cream Flavors
Cake Batter
Cinnamon
Coconut
Happy Tracks
Mocha Almond Fudge
Marshmallow
Rum Raisin
Triple Chocolate
Impact on the Ice Cream Industry
The removal of artificial colors from ice cream products is expected to have a significant impact on the industry. Many ice cream companies will need to reformulate their products and find alternative coloring agents that are natural and safe for consumption.
This change may also lead to an increase in the cost of ice cream products, as natural coloring agents can be more expensive than artificial ones. However, many consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that are perceived as healthier and more natural.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blue Bell Creameries’ decision to remove artificial colors from its ice cream products is a significant step towards providing consumers with more natural and healthier options. The move is part of a wider trend in the food industry towards the use of natural ingredients and the avoidance of artificial additives.
As the ice cream industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more companies following Blue Bell’s lead and removing artificial colors from their products. This change will not only benefit consumers but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What artificial colors is Blue Bell removing from its ice cream products?
A: Blue Bell is removing certified artificial colors, including Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, from its ice cream products.
Q: Why is Blue Bell removing artificial colors from its ice cream products?
A: Blue Bell is removing artificial colors from its ice cream products due to growing consumer demand for more natural ingredients and the potential for state laws and federal policies to create misalignment and disruption in the industry.
Q: What flavors will still be available after the removal of artificial colors?
A: Blue Bell has listed dozens of ice cream flavors and products that are suitable for those avoiding certified artificial colors, including standard ice cream flavors, no sugar added ice cream flavors, featured ice cream flavors, year-round market specific ice cream flavors, Blue Bell snacks and sherbet, and 3-gallon ice cream flavors.
Q: Will the removal of artificial colors affect the taste of Blue Bell ice cream products?
A: The removal of artificial colors is not expected to affect the taste of Blue Bell ice cream products, as the colors are primarily used for aesthetic purposes and do not impact the flavor of the products.
Q: Will the removal of artificial colors increase the cost of Blue Bell ice cream products?
A: The removal of artificial colors may lead to an increase in the cost of Blue Bell ice cream products, as natural coloring agents can be more expensive than artificial ones. However, many consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that are perceived as healthier and more natural.
