Nestle USA to remove artificial flavours, cut salt in some foods

Nestle USA said it would remove artificial flavours as food companies are under pressure to offer less-processed products amid growing concerns that artificial colors and flavors could cause health problems.

Nestle USA said on Tuesday it would remove artificial flavours and reduce salt by 10 percent in its frozen pizza and snack products by the end of this year.

The move will include more than 250 products sold under the Digiorno, Tombstone, California Pizza Kitchen, Jack's, Hot Pocket and Lean Pockets brands.

The company, a unit of Switzerland's Nestle SA, said it would also provide tips on healthy eating on the packaging of these products.

Nestle USA said in February it would remove artificial flavours and certified colors from its chocolate products, such as Butterfinger and Baby Ruth bars, by the end of the year.

Restaurant chains and food companies are under pressure to offer less-processed products amid growing concerns that artificial colors and flavours could cause health problems.

Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, owned by Yum Brands Inc, said in May they would remove artificial colors and flavours from their food.