Texas Launches Investigation into M&M’s and Skittles: What You Need to Know About Food Dyes

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Mars, the company behind popular candies like M&M’s and Skittles. He claims the company hasn’t kept its promise to eliminate synthetic food dyes from its products. According to Paxton, Mars removed certain “toxic” dyes in Europe but has not made similar changes for American consumers.

In his remarks, Paxton urged Mars to follow the lead of other big names such as Nestlé and Hershey, who are committed to removing these dyes. “It’s the right thing to do,” he emphasized.

Mars, headquartered in McLean, Virginia, has yet to respond to the allegations. This situation comes amid a broader movement in the U.S. aimed at reducing the use of synthetic food dyes and ultraprocessed foods. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made this a key focus of his “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. He cites concerns linking these dyes to health issues, including ADHD and even cancer, though many scientists argue that more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Several companies, including General Mills, J.M. Smucker, Kraft Heinz, and PepsiCo, have pledged to eliminate these dyes by 2028 or sooner. However, Mars claims that consumer preferences vary by region; European customers tend to favor the removal of artificial colors, while those in other regions may not be as concerned.

It’s interesting to note that public sentiment around food safety and health has shifted significantly over the past few years. Social media is abuzz with conversations about food transparency and health awareness. Many consumers are now inclined to scrutinize food labels more closely, advocating for ingredients that are natural and safe.

As our understanding of food and health grows, companies may have to respond more to consumer demands. The current investigation into Mars could set a precedent for other corporations in the food industry. Keeping an eye on this issue will be important as consumers and regulators push for healthier options.

For further reading, you can check out the FDA’s food labeling guidelines here.

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Food and Drink,Retail,Public Health,Ken Paxton