Core Viewpoint - The food and beverage industry is undergoing a significant transformation as major companies announce plans to eliminate artificial colors from their products by 2025, driven by regulatory changes and shifting consumer preferences towards healthier options [6][7][9]. Group 1: Artificial Colors and Their Role - Artificial colors are essential in the food and beverage industry, enhancing the visual appeal of products and masking imperfections [3][5]. - They help consumers identify flavors through color differentiation, such as orange juice being yellow and kiwi juice being green [3]. Group 2: Industry Changes and Regulatory Impact - Major food companies like Nestlé, Kraft Heinz, and PepsiCo plan to phase out artificial colors in response to a new FDA initiative requiring the elimination of certain synthetic colors by the end of 2026 [7][8]. - This shift marks a transition from voluntary clean label movements to mandatory regulatory actions in the U.S. food additive landscape [7]. Group 3: Market Demand and Alternatives - The growing consumer demand for healthier food options is accelerating the removal of artificial colors, as more people scrutinize ingredient lists [9]. - Natural colors are emerging as the primary alternative, although they present challenges in terms of cost and availability, being 3-5 times more expensive than synthetic options [13]. Group 4: Implications for Chinese Brands - Chinese food companies are likely to follow suit in eliminating artificial colors, especially as international brands introduce natural color products in the Chinese market [15][17]. - Some Chinese brands have already begun this transition, emphasizing clean labels and natural ingredients to meet consumer expectations [17].