Cheetos & Doritos Go Natural: Healthier Snacks Coming Soon
PepsiCo is introducing a new Simply NKD product line for Cheetos and Doritos, set to launch on December 1st, featuring natural colors and flavors as part of a US government initiative to reduce synthetic additives in food. While this shift is US-focused, it aligns with Malta’s growing preference for clean-label products and natural ingredients, reflecting broader global health trends. Artificial dyes, linked to potential health risks, are being phased out by major brands like Kraft Heinz and ice cream producers, though some sectors like confectionery face challenges in adapting. For Malta’s food scene, these developments offer opportunities for restaurants and cafes to incorporate healthier, minimally processed ingredients into menus, enhancing appeal to health-conscious diners. As diet continues to play a vital role in overall well-being, this move towards natural ingredients supports better consumer choices without compromising taste or convenience, resonating with Malta’s Mediterranean culinary traditions and focus on wellness.
Cheetos and Doritos to Reduce Artificial Colors: A Step Towards Healthier Snacking
PepsiCo, the company behind beloved snack brands Cheetos and Doritos, is launching a new product line that ditches artificial colors and flavors. Known as the Simply NKD range, these snacks are set to hit shelves on December 1st and will feature the same iconic flavors—such as Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Cool Ranch Doritos—but with a noticeable difference: a lighter, more natural color. This move comes as part of a broader initiative spearheaded by the US government to reduce synthetic additives in the food supply.
While this shift is taking place across the Atlantic, it reflects a growing global trend that resonates with the health-conscious community here in Malta. With more consumers prioritizing clean labels and natural ingredients, the demand for snacks free from artificial additives has never been higher. Whether you’re reaching for a quick bite during a hike along the Dingli Cliffs or enjoying a laid-back beach picnic at Għajn Tuffieħa, healthier snack options are becoming increasingly relevant to Maltese lifestyles.
PepsiCo has confirmed that the Simply NKD snacks will cost the same as the original versions, which will remain available for those who prefer them. The decision to introduce this new line aligns with a US government initiative dubbed “Make America Healthy Again,” led by the Health and Human Services Secretary. The campaign aims to eliminate petroleum-based synthetic dyes from food products, which have been linked to potential health risks, particularly in children. While this initiative is currently US-focused, it raises important questions about the role of artificial ingredients in the global food system, including Malta’s.
Artificial food dyes have long been a subject of scrutiny due to their possible effects on health, including allergies, hyperactivity in children, and other developmental concerns. Here in Malta, where Mediterranean diets rich in fresh produce, olive oil, and whole grains are celebrated for their health benefits, the shift towards natural food products aligns perfectly with our culinary traditions. But as imported snacks remain popular in the local market, awareness about ingredients becomes critical.
Interestingly, PepsiCo isn’t the only company making changes. Kraft Heinz, known for staples like Jell-O and Kool-Aid, has committed to removing chemical dyes from its products by 2027. Similarly, a significant number of ice cream producers have pledged to phase out synthetic dyes. However, not all sectors are onboard just yet. The confectionery industry—responsible for colorful candies like M&Ms and Skittles—has been slower to adapt, citing challenges in sourcing natural alternatives and concerns about higher production costs, which could lead to price increases.
For Malta’s restaurant and food scene, these global developments present exciting opportunities. As diners continue to seek out healthier options, restaurants and cafes across the islands can incorporate more natural and minimally processed ingredients into their menus. Whether it’s offering snacks with clean labels or curating dishes that highlight fresh, local produce, aligning with health trends can attract discerning customers who value quality and wellness.
The shift towards natural ingredients also ties into Malta’s broader focus on longevity and mental well-being. As research increasingly links diet to overall health—both physical and mental—it’s clear that what we eat plays a crucial role in how we feel and function. By reducing reliance on artificial additives, companies like PepsiCo are helping consumers make better choices without sacrificing taste or convenience.
As the Simply NKD line launches in December, it serves as a reminder to all food lovers in Malta to pay closer attention to ingredient labels and support brands that prioritize health. Whether you’re a restaurateur looking to innovate your menu or a snack enthusiast seeking cleaner options, the move towards natural ingredients is one we can all embrace for a healthier future.