By Chelsey Dulaney
Yum Brands Inc.'s Taco Bell chain Tuesday committed itself to
removing all artificial flavors and colors from its food by the end
of the year, joining a host of other food companies who are going
natural.
Taco Bell said it would also remove additives like added trans
fats and hopes to remove additional artificial preservatives and
additives by the end of 2017.
The moves impact more than 95% of its core food items, Taco Bell
said.
Other food makers have made similar moves recently as they look
to respond to a consumer shift toward foods seen as simpler and
more healthful.
Earlier this month, Panera Bread Co. committed itself to
removing at least 150 artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors and
preservatives from its menu by the end of next year.
In February, Nestlé SA said it would remove artificial flavors
and colors from its Crunch and Butterfinger candy bars, and other
chocolates in the U.S.
Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. recently said it has mostly
completed removing genetically modified ingredients from its supply
chain amid growing consumer concerns about the agricultural
technology.
For its part, Taco Bell has already moved to reduce sodium by
15% across its menu and removed all kid's meals from its U.S. store
menus.
Write to Chelsey Dulaney at Chelsey.Dulaney@wsj.com
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