Wed, 28 May 2025

Wed, 28 May 2025 Mars phases out controversial colour additive in Skittles in US

Confectionery giant Mars said it had stopped using titanium dioxide in its Skittles portfolio in the US.
Mars has removed titanium dioxide, a color additive linked to potential health risks, from its US Skittles production line. The move follows years of criticism and comes as concerns about processed foods gain traction in public health debates. Despite Mars' 2016 pledge to eliminate artificial colors from its products, the company's decision to ditch titanium dioxide was not publicly explained. Mars' switch to a titanium dioxide-free formula may go unnoticed by consumers, as the additive is used primarily for color and shine. However, the removal of the ingredient marks a significant shift in the US food industry, particularly given the ongoing debate over its safety. Titanium dioxide has been banned in several countries, including the European Union, where it was prohibited due to potential health risks. In the US, a 2023 California effort to ban the additive was defeated, but similar efforts continue in other states. The White House's recent report on food additives highlighted titanium dioxide as a key concern. Mars' decision to remove the ingredient from Skittles may indicate a shift towards greater transparency and consumer demand for safer food products.
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