Mars Inc. swaps artificial dyes for natural colors in iconic candies

In a significant shift towards healthier food options, Mars Inc. has announced that it will replace artificial coloring in its popular candies, including M&M's, Skittles, and Starburst, with natural ingredients. This decision comes in response to changing consumer preferences and a 2025 directive from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to phase out synthetic petroleum dyes from the U.S. food supply. The company has been working on this transition for over a decade, conducting extensive research and testing to ensure that the new natural colors maintain the vibrant appearance that consumers expect from these iconic treats.

The new colorings will utilize natural sources such as beet juice for red, turmeric for yellow, and a blend of spirulina and other natural ingredients for green. Mars has also found ways to create orange hues using beta-carotene and carotenoids, while purple Skittles will be dyed with grape juice. However, the company has faced challenges in producing blue and brown colors naturally, as maintaining color consistency has proven difficult. Claire Hewitt, Mars' senior director of ingredient transformation, highlighted the importance of vibrancy and consistency in the new formulations.

Mars Inc. has actively sought consumer feedback, engaging over 13,000 individuals in the past year to guide their ingredient transformation. This move aligns with a broader trend in the food industry, where consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and healthier options in their food products. The decision to eliminate artificial dyes is not only a response to consumer preferences but also reflects growing concerns about the potential health impacts of synthetic dyes, which have been linked to childhood hyperactivity and allergic reactions in various studies.

As these new candies become available on platforms like Amazon, they will be priced the same as their artificially colored counterparts, making them accessible to a wide audience. This initiative by Mars Inc. marks a significant step in the evolution of candy production, as the company aims to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers while maintaining the beloved characteristics of their products. The transition to natural coloring is expected to set a precedent in the candy industry, encouraging other manufacturers to follow suit in the pursuit of healthier and more natural food options.