Mars Wrigley North America reveals major product lineup changes that have fans buzzing. By 2026, the company will remove synthetic dyes, including Red 40, from its most popular candy products. This decision comes in direct response to growing public health outcry against artificial color additives. Science has found these additives to be connected with a variety of problems, including hyperactivity in children and potential cancer-invoking effects in animals.
Look no further than Red 40, one of the most common dyes that has faced backlash for links to serious health issues. As it has been found to be carcinogenic in rodent studies, it has raised red flags with consumers and health advocates alike. In response to these concerns, Mars Wrigley plans to eliminate Red 40 from four categories of its well-known products: gum, fruity confections, and chocolate candy. The initiative champions M&M’S Chocolate, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint and Starburst Original fruit chews to start. Together, they will be the first brands to roll out without Red 40.
The decision follows a growing trend among food manufacturers to remove artificial dyes from products. Kraft Heinz and General Mills, we’re so glad to see you stepping up! They have pledged to remove all artificial food dyes – Red 40 included – from such products over the next two years. This demand has been behind these companies’ efforts and increasing consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food options.
Now, a growing number of states are advancing legislation to ban Red 40 in state-funded school lunch programs. This action reinforces the increasing trend to adopt natural ingredients. New clinical trials demonstrate that once kids remove Red 40 from their diets, they experience improved behavior. They show greater sustained attention in these instances. This evidence has led many parents and health organizations to urge for a ban on synthetic dyes in food.
Mars Wrigley North America has been on a pretty cool innovation journey in the past couple years. They’re making bold bets to serve up delicious product innovations for consumers who seek out indulgence. A representative from Mars Wrigley stated. The company aims “to protect families and support healthier choices” through this transition.
Robert F. Kennedy highlighted the importance of moving away from synthetic dyes, stating, “For too long, our food system has relied on synthetic, petroleum-based dyes that offer no nutritional value and pose unnecessary health risks. We’re removing these dyes and approving safe, natural alternatives.” This upbeat sentiment reflects an overall movement in the business. Business is already working to find alternatives that fit the science-based safety standards and the consumers demands.
The FDA’s forward leaning engagement with regulators makes clear just how critical this issue is when it comes to protecting public health. Consumers are increasingly looking for transparency in their food. In turn, companies such as Mars Wrigley are preemptively setting their practices in accordance to these increasing expectations.
Mars Wrigley North America’s products with artificial colors removed will roll out across the country over the course of next year. With this new initiative, USDA is making an important move toward improving the availability, access, and affordability of healthy food options for families nationwide.
