Raley’s to eliminate artificially flavored store brand sodas

Raley’s Family of Fine Stores, West Sacramento, Calif., said it will eliminate certain Raley’s private label brand sodas to advance its vision of health and wellness. The sodas to be removed include all flavors containing high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors, including diet soda varieties.

"This is a bold first step towards improving our private label options for our customers," said Kevin Curry, Raley's senior vice president, merchandising & supply chain. "Where we have control over our product lines, we want to offer products that reflect our ongoing vision to infuse life with health and happiness. Essentially, we want to make it easier for our customers to make healthier choices." 

A number of studies conducted over the past few decades suggest that consumption of high-fructose corn syrup is connected with health concerns, including a significant risk of weight gain and obesity, as well as an increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes, hypertension, elevated “bad” cholesterol levels and liver damage. Raley’s said its vision is to infuse life with health and wellness. The company strives to educate customers and provide wholesome Raley’s brand options. 

Raley's discontinued production of private brand soda with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors and will phase out the remaining inventory over the next two-weeks. All Raley’s store brand soda with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors will be out of stock by August 1.