The state of Texas has launched a formal investigation against Mars Incorporated, the company behind the production of the popular M&M’s and Skittles candies. The reason: its alleged refusal to remove synthetic colorants from its products sold in the United States. This inquiry places Mars at the center of the debate over public health, food safety, and corporate ethics.
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Why is Texas investigating Mars over the use of synthetic colorants?
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the launch of a civil investigation into Mars’ business practices. In a public statement, Paxton said his office issued a civil investigative demand requesting documents that explain why the company continues to use synthetic colorants in its products, despite a 2016 promise to eliminate them from all its food lines.
Mars publicly committed at the time to remove all artificial colors from its foods. However, Paxton claims that while the company has eliminated these “toxic” additives in Europe, they remain present in products sold in the United States. The Attorney General warns that this decision could constitute a deceptive trade practice that violates the rights of American consumers.
“It is time for Mars to follow the lead of companies like Nestlé and Hershey, which are already removing synthetic dyes from their products. It’s the right thing to do,” Paxton stated.
What health risks are associated with synthetic colorants in food?
The concern expressed by Texas authorities aligns with a growing national apprehension regarding the impact of synthetic colorants on public health. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, has pointed out that reducing the consumption of ultraprocessed foods and artificial colorants is a priority under his “Make America Healthy Again” campaign.
Kennedy attributes these additives to the development of health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and certain types of cancer. Although some scientists have noted that more conclusive research is needed to establish a direct link, the debate continues to gain traction among authorities and consumers alike.
Which other companies have committed to eliminating synthetic colorants?
Several major companies in the food industry have taken steps to eliminate artificial colorants from their products, in response to public pressure and stricter regulations in various parts of the world. Companies like Nestlé, Hershey, General Mills, J.M. Smucker, Kraft Heinz, and PepsiCo have pledged to remove these additives by 2028 at the latest.
Mars, headquartered in McLean, Virginia, has not issued an immediate official comment following the announcement of the Texas investigation. However, the company has previously argued that consumer attitudes toward artificial colorants vary by geographic region.
