State takes part in campaign to eliminate food dyes from M&Ms

Texas Attorney General Investigates Mars for Candy Dyes

Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Mars, the maker of M&Ms and Skittles, focusing on what he refers to as “deceptive and illegal practices” related to artificial dyes used in their candies.

In a statement issued to Fox News Digital, Paxton’s office described the investigation as part of a broader strategy to take a stand against such practices, aligning with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This inquiry centers on allegations that Mars has misrepresented the use of artificial dyes in various candy products, including M&Ms and Skittles, which Paxton argues infringes on Texas consumer rights.

Interestingly, Paxton highlighted that while Mars continues to use these artificial colors in its U.S. products, they have already phased them out in Europe.

In 2016, Mars made a commitment to eliminate artificial colors from all their human food products. They claimed this decision was to align with changing consumer preferences. The company maintains that “artificial colors do not pose a known risk to human health or safety.” However, they recognized a shift in consumer demand for more natural ingredients.

Despite these claims, a later update from Mars suggested that many consumers do not see artificial colors as their primary concern. They mentioned that they would prioritize removing these colors in European markets but would not entirely eliminate them in others.

Paxton criticized Mars, asserting that their claim of no known health risks from artificial dyes is misleading. He pointed out associations between these dyes and various health issues, including ADHD, autism, and even cancer. As a part of this investigation, Paxton issued a civil investigation demand to gather documentation from Mars.

“Mars needs to eliminate these toxic artificial dyes from U.S. food,” Paxton stated. He emphasized that fulfilling their 2016 commitment is not only essential for public health but also for compliance with the law. He urged Mars to catch up with other companies like Nestle and Hershey, who have already removed such dyes from their products.

A senior advisor from the White House, working on health initiatives, criticized Mars for their reluctance to stop using artificial colors, asserting it’s a matter of common sense.

This prompted Paxton to extend his investigation to General Mills, which has pledged to remove artificial dyes from its own products. Additionally, he has also addressed Kellogg for alleged violations of Texas consumer protection laws related to similar issues.

In a personal note, Paxton is currently navigating a contentious situation as his wife, Texas Senator Angela Paxton, has filed for divorce on what she terms “Bible grounds.”