In-N-Out Ingredient Updates
In-N-Out updates menu ingredients across ten states, removing sesame flour and replacing iodized salt.
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Key Points
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The sesame-flour change could have particular significance for people with sesame allergies: even trace amounts can cause severe, potentially life-threatening reactions. In-N-Out has not said whether allergen reduction was the reason for the reformulation.
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In-N-Out has not identified which 10 states are covered by the new bun formulation or said whether the sesame-free recipe will eventually be used nationwide.
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The removal of artificial coloring from strawberry shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade predates the latest announcement; it followed the introduction of Lite Pink Lemonade with natural coloring in late 2023. The changes also come amid heightened regulatory scrutiny of synthetic dyes, including the FDA’s action involving Red No. 3 and other colorings.
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Critics of the salt change specifically argued that eliminating iodized salt could reduce a source of iodine, an essential nutrient important to thyroid health, rather than simply objecting to the flavor or ingredient swap.
In-N-Out Burger is removing sesame flour from hamburger buns and swapping iodized salt packets for sea salt across 10 states, according to Fox 5 DC. The chain also confirmed that its 2025 ketchup formula uses real sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup, and it has stripped artificial colors from strawberry shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade. The company says these changes reflect its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients—but it has not detailed why each swap was made or whether prices will rise.
The sesame removal has sparked particular concern among people with sesame allergies, who can suffer severe, potentially life-threatening reactions even from trace amounts. At the same time, nutrition experts question the sea salt switch: unlike iodized salt, plain sea salt does not reliably provide iodine, a nutrient critical for thyroid health. Some diners also reported that the new buns feel more crumbly.
Sesame Removal Cuts Allergen Risk—With Unknowns Remaining
Sesame is a major allergen listed on FDA labeling requirements. Removing sesame flour from buns may shield sensitive customers from a serious exposure risk. However, Fox 26 Houston reported that In-N-Out has not confirmed whether allergen reduction was the driver behind the reformulation or whether the sesame-free recipe will expand nationwide beyond the initial 10 states.
The company also has not disclosed whether its kitchens maintain separate preparation areas to prevent cross-contact with sesame during cooking and assembly. For customers with severe allergies, this ambiguity means the ingredient change alone does not guarantee a fully safe meal.
Salt Swap Trades Iodine for Simplicity
In-N-Out replaced iodized salt packets with sea salt, Fox 10 Phoenix reported. The two salts contain similar sodium levels, so the switch does not make the seasoning inherently healthier or lower in salt. The real difference is iodine: iodized salt is fortified with this essential nutrient, whereas plain sea salt typically is not.
Nutrition experts worry the change may reduce iodine intake for customers who do not get the nutrient from other sources like dairy or fish. Iodine deficiency can harm thyroid function and overall metabolism. In-N-Out appears to have simplified its ingredient list rather than improve the nutritional profile.
Artificial Dyes Removed Amid Regulatory Pressure
In-N-Out removed artificial colors from strawberry shakes and Signature Pink Lemonade as part of a broader industry pivot away from synthetic dyes. Wide Open Country noted the chain introduced Lite Pink Lemonade with natural coloring in late 2023, signaling an earlier shift in this direction. The removal follows heightened FDA scrutiny of synthetic colorings, including Red No. 3.
The dye removals align with growing consumer and regulatory concern over artificial additives. Unlike the sesame and salt changes, this move has drawn broad support from customers and health advocates who view synthetic dyes as unnecessary.
Ten-State Rollout Raises Questions on Consistency
In-N-Out has not identified which 10 states are receiving the sesame-free buns, creating uncertainty for customers and franchisees alike. A regional formula complicates supply chains, staff training, and menu consistency across the chain. Fox 5 NY reported that some diners complained the new buns seemed more crumbly, a sign the texture may differ noticeably from the previous recipe.
The staggered rollout allows In-N-Out to test customer response and manage sourcing costs before potentially going nationwide. However, it risks confusing loyal customers who order the same burger in different states and expect identical results.
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