Abstract: A heat stabilizing composition for polyolefins comprises an oxidized, non-cationized, non-silylated sulfur black pigment, a hindered phenolic antioxidant a sulfur-containing secondary stabilizer, each in stabilizing amount, and a hindered amine. The heat stabilizing composition yields polyolefin compounds and articles having improved long term heat aging stability. Preferably, the sulfur black pigment is treated by washing, to thereby reduce the concentration of soluble sodium salts.