Tyson Foods, the US meat processing giant, has announced plans to eliminate high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and several other additives from its popular brands, including Jimmy Dean and Hillshire Farm, by the end of the year.
The company confirmed on Monday that it will also stop using the artificial sweetener Sucralose, the preservative BHA/BHT, and the colour additive Titanium Dioxide across its portfolio. Other affected brands include Wright, State Fair, Aidells, and ibp. Tyson said it is unclear what replacements will be used.
Donnie King, President and CEO of Tyson Foods, stated: “We continuously review and assess our product portfolio to ensure the highest quality products that meet the needs of consumers. Our decision to remove High Fructose Corn Syrup and other ingredients reflects our ongoing commitment to feeding the world like family, while preserving the taste, value and integrity that define our iconic brands.”
The move comes as the Trump administration pursues its “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The MAHA Commission has proposed over 120 measures to combat chronic childhood disease, including removing harmful chemicals from food and improving labelling. Earlier this year, Tyson eliminated petroleum-based synthetic dyes from its US products, aligning with a government phase-out of such dyes.
While critics argue HFCS is more harmful than sugar, a 2023 Healthline article noted that both HFCS and table sugar have similar health effects when consumed in excess. Tyson maintains the changes are part of a long-standing effort to reduce sodium, sugars, and additives.
