Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Take Stand Against Artificial Flavors, Colors

Pizza Hut and Taco Bell are joining brands like McDonald’s and Chipotle in appealing to consumers by getting rid of ingredients with negative associations.

The pizza chain recently announced it is removing artificial flavors and colors from its pizzas by the end of July, making it the first national chain to do so, according to QSR.

"Today's consumer more than ever before wants to understand the ingredients that make up the foods that they enjoy," David Gibbs, CEO of Pizza Hut, was quoted as saying. "As the world's largest pizza company that has unrivaled heritage in quality and flavorful pizzas, it only made sense for us to lead the category in this area. We are committed to doing this the right way and to make the changes that ensure only the highest quality and greatest flavors in our food."

Meanwhile, Taco Bell also announced it is removing all artificial colors and flavors from most of its menu, as well as certain additives, added trans fats, palm oil and high-fructose corn syrup by the end of 2015, according to Nation’s Restaurant News.

CEO of Taco Bell Brian Niccol said this wouldn’t stop the franchise from “being affordable, craveable and Mexican-inspired.”