Kraft is removing artificial colors from Mac & Cheese

NORTHFIELD, Ill., April 21 (UPI) -- Kraft Mac & Cheese is saying goodbye to the artificial preservatives and synthetic colors responsible for the bright orange hue everyone knows and loves.

The company announced on Monday that the plans to remove such preservatives and colors are part of an "on-trend update" and told customers that their concerns matter.

Triona Schmelter, vice president of marketing, Meals, said: "We've met with families in their homes and watched them prepare Kraft Mac & Cheese in their kitchens. They told us they want to feel good about the foods they eat and serve their families, including everything from improved nutrition to simpler ingredients."

The Chicago Tribune reported that a Change.org petition, which began in March, garnered 360,000 signatures asking Kraft to remove dyes from the packaged meal.

Macaroni and cheese fanatics can rest assured, Schmetler said: "They also told us they won't compromise on the taste of their Mac & Cheese -- and neither will we. That's why we've been working tirelessly to find the right recipe that our fans will love."

The changes to the iconic blue box dinner are scheduled to come into effect by January 2016.