Mars Inc., makers of over 50 brands including M&M’s, Skittles, Wrigley’s gum, Snickers, and Twix, is removing all artificial coloring from its human food products. This includes chocolates, gums, confections, and drinks (Mars also makes pet food), with the change will take place incrementally over the next five years.
Highlighting that the company will “work closely with its suppliers to find alternatives that not only meet its strict quality and safety standards, but also maintain the vibrant, fun colors consumers have come to expect from the company’s beloved brands,” Mars president and CEO Grant F. Reid announced:
“We’re in the business of satisfying and delighting the people who love our products. Eliminating all artificial colors from our human food portfolio is a massive undertaking, and one that will take time and hard work to accomplish. Our consumers are the boss and we hear them. If it’s the right thing to do for them, it’s the right thing to do for Mars.”
In 2015, defending artificial dyes Mars asserted that the company was exploring possibilities of using more naturally sourced colors in future.
“We already offer a range of products that are free of artificial colors around the world. It’s part of our ongoing commitment to meet evolving consumer preferences while taking advantage of new technologies and scientific information. As an example, in the U.S., the FDA has approved Mars’ petition to use Spirulina Extract as a naturally sourced color additive in confectionery and chewing gum.
“Replacing artificial colors across all our products is a complex task. We expect it will take about five years to develop the full range of alternatives that guarantee the integrity and great taste of the products you know and love, and to go through the process of obtaining regulatory approval for all new ingredients in development.”
Does this mean they are technically healthier? https://t.co/o7Qv7VwHYK
— Michelle West (@ChamberSpeak) February 26, 2016
Just because food packaging says “natural”, it doesn’t mean it is. Look out for this kind of stuff: https://t.co/GtemQ0rd90#healthwashing
— nūd fūd (@nudfud) February 25, 2016
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