Mars rolls out candy options without FD&C colors

CHICAGO — Mars Snacking is introducing new versions of products from its M&M’s, Skittles, Starburst and Extra brands that are free of Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors. The company says the launch follows more than a decade of research, formulation work and investment in manufacturing capabilities to develop alternatives while maintaining the products’ taste, quality and overall experience.

“For 115 years, Mars has been proud to bring our consumers the products they love, while never compromising on quality,” says Anton Vincent, president of Mars Snacking North America. “As we look ahead, Mars will continue to deliver against this standard, offering more choices to meet evolving needs and preferences.”

The new options include Skittles Original in strawberry, orange, lemon, grape, and lime; Starburst Original Fruit Chews in strawberry, cherry, orange, and lemon; Extra Spearmint Gum; and M&M’s Milk Chocolate.

The initial M&M’s Milk Chocolate formulation without FD&C colors includes red, orange, green, and yellow pieces and excludes blue and brown. Mars says it is continuing to refine the formulation.

Existing M&M’s varieties featuring the brand’s original six-color assortment of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and brown will remain unchanged, according to the company.

Mars says it is exploring alternatives to FD&C colors across its broader portfolio that meet the company’s safety and quality standards and regulatory requirements.

“We know how much love people have for our brands, which have played a special part in celebrations big and small for generations,” says Jaime Boyes, senior vice-president of R&D at Mars Snacking North America. “We’re dedicated to continuing to delight consumers by delivering the quality and experience they expect from Mars.”

Vincent adds: “At Mars Wrigley, we are in the business of delighting and treating the millions of consumers who love our products. Our approach is always consumer-focused and science-led, and all of our delicious Mars Wrigley products meet the high standards and applicable regulations set by food safety authorities around the world, including the FDA.”