
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
Experience Is standing by: 10 Pleasant Setting up camp Areas to - 2
They want better health care — so they're turning to crypto startups - 3
10 Demonstrated Systems to Develop Your Internet based Business - 4
Sintana Energy flags major resource upgrade at Namibia oil discovery - 5
Don't miss these five impressive spots in Bangkok
Most loved Amusement Park for Small children: Which One Do You Suggest?
Smartwatches: Remain Associated and Dynamic
Embrace the Outside: Exercises and Entertainment
Understanding climate change in America: Skepticism, dogmatism and personal experience
Spanish woman, 25, dies by legal euthanasia in case that drew national spotlight
Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims against Justin Baldoni dismissed. Where the case stands now.
Heading to Florida for NASA's Artemis 2 moon launch? Here's what to know before you go
More parents refusing this shot that prevents serious bleeding at birth
Want to read more in 2026? Here's how to revive your love of books













