Mars Wrigley North America has committed to removing synthetic dyes from its best-selling candy products. This new requirement will affect popular favorites, such as M&M’s, Skittles, Starburst and Extra Gum, starting in 2026. This decision is a strong indication of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) growing alarm about the harmfulness of artificial color additives. Specifically, Red 40 and Red 3 have raised concerns about their possible adverse effects on public health.
Despite these findings, Red 40 remains a favorite among the food industry. In a parallel effort, the FDA is already removing Red 3, enforcing its removal from all food products by 2027. Scientific research had shown that Red 40 and Red 3 were both carcinogenic in animals. Furthermore, studies have associated Red 40 with hyperactivity in children, causing concern among parents and health advocates.
We’re very serious about consumer health and Mars Wrigley North America. They will commit to increasing the availability of candy products that do not contain Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors. This effort will begin with four key product lines. It’s a huge step in the right direction, and one we’re excited to see other companies take as they reformulate products. To start, M&M’S Chocolate, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint and Starburst Original fruit chews will be the first products produced dye-free. So prepare to enjoy these delicious sweets in a healthier way!
In recent years, there has been a marked trend in the food industry to turn to more natural options. In further good news, the FDA has recently approved three new color additives—all derived from natural sources. Either way, all these additives have common use across many consumer products. Now, many states have passed laws to remove synthetic food dyes from state-funded school lunch programs. This change recognizes the new reality of public demand for healthier food choices.
Mars Wrigley North America is not the only player in this movement. Go Kraft Heinz and General Mills for leading the charge! They will remove artificial food dyes from most of their products over the next two years. This trend is emblematic of a larger industry movement towards using safer and more transparent ingredients, fueled by rising consumer awareness and demand.
We’re taking these dyes out and allowing safe, natural alternatives—to keep families safe and help families make healthier choices. declared Robert F. Kennedy, as he called for the wholesale reform of the food industry.
Anton Vincent, president of Mars Wrigley North America told USA Today that the company is proud to take the lead. He explained how Mars Wrigley is on an “innovation journey.” Whatever the process used, their aim is the same: to provide consumers with convenient, tasty options focused on improving health. “Mars Wrigley North America is exploring alternatives that satisfy scientific safety criteria, technical requirements and consumer preferences,” he added.
Further, the FDA has been very proactive in engaging with industry stakeholders over color additives. They are tracking the increasing tension around food dyes. This new commitment to oversight reveals that regulatory frameworks are likely to keep pace with consumer trends—or lack thereof.
