Vermont Nut Free Chocolates Launches Artificial Dye-Free Winter Collection and Rebrand Ahead of Federal Dye Deadline

COLCHESTER, Vt. – Vermont Nut Free Chocolates is scaling its better-for-you business with a winter collection featuring Peppermint Crunch Bark reformulated with plant-based colors and a redesigned Advent Calendar, the first product to carry the company’s new logo and packaging. The 28-year-old Vermont company is on track to remove artificial dyes from its entire product line by Dec. 31, 2026.   

“We were one of the first companies to set the standard for safety for the millions of people with peanut allergies. We believe everyone deserves clean ingredients,” said Mark Elvidge, co-founder and COO of Vermont Nut Free Chocolates. “That’s why we’re removing artificial colors from our products and leveling up our look, so more shoppers can find us on store shelves.” 

The Winter Collection features Peppermint Crunch Bark made with plant-based colors in a dedicated peanut and tree nut free facility. Vermont Nut Free Chocolates’ commitment to removing artificial dyes from its entire product line began in June 2026 with the relaunch of Skippers®.  

Holiday customers will also have new choices including Chocolate Covered Peppermint Pretzels made with plant-based colors and natural peppermint oil. 

Modernizing the look of Vermont Nut Free Chocolates aligns with best retail practices and positions the company for growth in the better-for-you snacking category. The logo, with its nod to flowing chocolate and the Vermont mountains, along with bright packaging, makes the trusted brand more visible to new customers nationwide 

The new packaging will be rolled out progressively starting with Advent Calendars. They are the first fully redesigned product packaging. Vermont Nut Free Chocolates’ best sellers, Mini Caramel Cups, Chocolate Covered Pretzels, and Sun Blossoms® will be the next in line for new packaging in 2027. 

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates is focused on expanding distribution along the East and West Coasts in natural and specialty stores. Currently, the better-for-you snacking brand is in over 600 retailers across the country, including Whole Foods in the Northeast. 

“Every week we’re getting new customers discovering us,” Elvidge said. “We’ve built trust and a loyal following for generations of families. Now, it’s time for more shoppers to have Vermont Nut Free Chocolates in their pantries.”

The company is testing recipes for its newest better-for-you product expected to be available to customers by the end of the year.  

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates Evolution Timeline

• Founded in 1998 in Gail and Mark Elvidge’s kitchen after son’s peanut reaction 

• Moved to first dedicated manufacturing facility in South Hero, Vermont in Spring 2000

• Relocated to bigger facility in Grand Isle, Vermont in 2003

• Expanded chocolate line with first safe snack TANABAR® granola bar in 2010

• Launched nut free dupes including Sun Blossoms® in 2015 

• Moved to 18,000 sq ft facility in Colchester, Vermont in 2018

• Celebrated 25 years in business in 2023

• Became egg-free in July 2024 

• In June 2026, removed artificial dyes from Skippers® with goal for complete transition by end of year

• Transition to new logo and packaging starting in November 2026

About Vermont Nut Free Chocolates 

Founded in 1998, Vermont Nut Free Chocolates crafts premium chocolate made with real ingredients and a commitment to exceptional taste. Produced in a dedicated nut free facility, the brand has earned the trust of allergy-conscious consumers for more than 28 years while delivering an indulgent chocolate experience. The company offers a range of chocolate bars, truffles, caramels, chocolate covered snacks, and other everyday treats made without compromise.

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