
Doritos and Cheetos are getting a makeover.
PepsiCo said Thursday it’s launching toned-down versions of its bright orange snacks that won't have any artificial colors or flavors. Doritos and Cheetos Simply NKD will hit store shelves on Dec. 1.
It’s part of a broader shift underway at PepsiCo, which announced in April that it would accelerate a planned transition to using natural colors in its foods and beverages. Around 40% of its U.S. products now contain synthetic dyes, according to the company.
Dye-free doesn’t mean Doritos and Cheetos Simply NKD will be colorless. Instead, they’re just a lighter color, like a tortilla chip.
Many other big food companies, including Kraft Heinz and General Mills, have made similar pledges. They're feeling pressure from federal regulators and U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who are urging companies to eliminate synthetic food dyes by next year.
States have also been taking action. Texas recently passed a law requiring warning labels for foods that contain artificial ingredients. Other states are moving to ban or restrict synthetic dyes.
PepsiCo has sold Simply brand Doritos and Cheetos without artificial dyes since 2002. But those products aren’t designed to taste like the original chips.
The Simply NKD versions are supposed to taste like the originals. But unlike the originals, they don’t contain petroleum-based dyes. They also have shorter ingredient lists.
For example, Simply NKD Doritos and Simply NKD Cheetos don’t contain the flavor-enhancing additives disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate, which are found in the original versions.
“We’re turning expectations upside down — removing artificial colors, not the flavor — and proving that unforgettable taste can be colorless,” said Rachel Ferdinando, the CEO of PepsiCo Foods U.S., in a statement.
PepsiCo said the Simply NKD line will include flavors like Cool Ranch Doritos and Flamin' Hot Cheetos. The chips will cost the same as original varieties.
The company said original Doritos and Cheetos will also remain on the market.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
An 'explosion' of solo-agers are struggling with rising costs and little support: 'I'm flying without a net' - 2
The Most Compelling Innovation Developments Somewhat recently - 3
Best Veggie lover Dinner: What's Your Plant-Based Pick? - 4
6 Solid Vehicle Fix Administrations to Keep Your Vehicle in Prime Condition - 5
German finance minister sees advantages of smartphones in schools
5 Cell phones of the Year
Golden satellite insulation sparkles during test | Space photo of the day for Dec. 30, 2025
Pick the Ideal Family Feline Variety for Your Home
Venice’s newest marvel is a wild, acrobatic dolphin. His refusal to leave puts him in danger
Untamed life Safe-havens All over the Planet Offering Remarkable Creature Experiences
Understanding the Rudiments of Tree Administrations
Amplifying Cash The executives: The Upsides and downsides of Various Ledgers
Old food pyramid vs. RFK Jr.'s new food pyramid. See what's different.
Vote in favor of your favored spot to peruse













