While some major American brands are removing synthetic food dyes, M&M’s and Skittles from Mars are still using them.
Even after initially supporting a 2016 initiative to eliminate artificial colors, Mars has stuck with synthetic dyes. The company’s change of heart occurred when they noticed differing consumer attitudes globally—many Europeans are against these dyes, but, interestingly, that’s not the case everywhere.
Adding to the debate, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Welfare secretary, has voiced his concerns about synthetic dyes, arguing they pose potential health risks.
Research has linked these dyes to various behavioral health issues in children, particularly in places like Australia, Canada, and Europe, which enforce stricter regulations on their use.
Nevertheless, synthetic dyes remain popular in the U.S., appearing in nearly 20% of packaged foods and drinks on supermarket shelves, according to a recent survey.
It was highlighted in a study published by the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that candy companies have the highest number of products containing synthetic dyes.
The National Confectionery Association has critiqued this research, claiming that it misses essential elements in its analysis. They suggested that candies and chocolates should not be compared to other foods, citing that many Americans consume these confections only a couple of times weekly.
Both Skittles and M&M’s label their products with common synthetic dyes, such as red 40 and yellow 5. Mars did not respond to inquiries for comment.
Kennedy’s suggestions have included phasing out synthetic dyes voluntarily, which seems to resonate with some food companies. Major brands like Kraft Heinz, General Mills, Pepsico, Nestle, and Conagra have plans for eliminating artificial colors from their American products. The question, though, is whether they will truly follow through.
Thomas Galligan, a scientist specializing in food additives, expressed doubt, remembering past instances where companies have failed to keep similar promises.
He mentioned that if the FDA were to implement warning labels for foods with synthetic dyes, akin to those in the European Union since 2010, companies would have stronger motivation to alter their practices.
Meanwhile, some states have begun taking matters into their own hands, passing laws against synthetic dyes. For example, West Virginia has outright banned most artificial food dyes, with California and Virginia also imposing restrictions. Texas plans to require warning labels on products containing over 40 dyes or additives starting in 2027.
The National Confectionery Association underscored its commitment to consumer safety, asserting that they adhere to regulatory guidelines. They also noted that while some artificial dyes persist, Mars has removed titanium dioxide from Skittles, a controversial additive.
Last year, all production of Skittles eliminated this additive, which has been banned in the European Union since 2022 due to health concerns. According to Mars’s website, the company remains dedicated to avoiding synthetic colors in their food offerings.
