Excalibur Seasoning to Discontinue Red Dye in Product Line
September 17, 2025 | 2 min to read
Pekin, Illinois has seen Excalibur Seasoning take significant action by removing FD&C Red Dye #3 from its Sure Cure products, aiming to align with consumer demand for cleaner labels. President Mike Shrier emphasized that the change balances safety and market trends, although the federal removal deadline is set for January 2027. Customers may encounter existing pink Sure Cure until stocks run out; new packaging will highlight this shift while maintaining brand integrity and reputation.
Pekin, Illinois – Excalibur Seasoning is proactively removing FD&C Red Dye #3 from its Sure Cure products.
This decision comes after the meat & seafood seasonings provider conducted thorough research into alternative colorants and industry trends.
“We believe this change will balance safety with the public desire to move to a clean label and away from FD&C dyes,” said Mike Shrier, President & CEO.
While a federal deadline for removing the dye from food products is not until January 2027, Excalibur stopped manufacturing Sure Cure with the colorant on September 8, 2025.
Shrier added that customers may still receive pink Sure Cure until the current inventory is exhausted.
To help identify the product, new bulk boxes will feature an orange-colored liner and label, while small bags will continue to use their familiar-colored packaging.
“Our reputation is built on the legendary quality and royal flavor found in every product we offer,” adds Shrier. “We are committed to staying ahead of industry standards and providing products that align with our customers’ expectations.”
About Excalibur
Excalibur Seasoning Co., is America’s premier provider of meat & seafood seasonings, rubs and marinades. Family-owned for more than 35 years, Excalibur’s reputation is built on the legendary quality and royal flavor found in every product offered in partnership with hundreds of grocers and meat processors nationwide. For more, visit the company website, and follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.