Mars removes controversial TITANIUM DIOXIDE additive from Skittles candy

• Mars Inc. announced on May 27 that it has removed titanium dioxide, a white pigment used to enhance the appearance of food, from its Skittles candy following health concerns raised by the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission.
• The commission’s report highlighted potential health risks associated with titanium dioxide, including cellular and DNA damage. The European Union banned titanium dioxide in food products in 2022 due to these risks.
• The move by Mars is part of a broader industry trend, with other major companies like PepsiCo and In-N-Out also transitioning away from artificial colors and additives in response to growing consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food options.
• Mars Inc. emphasized its commitment to the safety and quality of its products, stating that all its products meet high standards set by global food safety authorities.
• While titanium dioxide remains an approved food additive in several countries, including the U.S., there is increasing pressure from state-level legislation and activist groups, such as the Environmental Working Group, to restrict or ban its use. The FDA is currently reviewing a petition to ban titanium dioxide.

In a significant move that aligns with growing health concerns, Mars Inc. – the maker of Skittles – announced on May 27 that it has removed titanium dioxide from its popular candy.

A company spokesperson confirmed the move in a statement, adding that the century-old company has always prioritized the safety of its consumers. “Our commitment to quality is what has enabled Mars to be enjoyed by consumers for over a century, and nothing is more important than the safety of our products. All our products are safe to enjoy and meet the high standards and applicable regulations set by food safety authorities around the world, and that’s something we will never compromise on,” the spokesperson said.

Titanium dioxide, a white pigment, has been a common additive in various food products including candies for decades. It is used to enhance the brightness and shine of food, often giving products a more appealing appearance.

However, concerns about its safety have been mounting over the years. In 2022, the European Union banned titanium dioxide in food products due to potential health risks, citing possible adverse outcomes such as cancer, heart damage, immune issues, inflammation, and neurological problems. (Related: California “Skittles ban” prompts call to ban other CANCER-CAUSING food additives already BANNED in Europe.)

The removal of titanium dioxide from Skittles is part of a broader industry trend. Other major companies, such as PepsiCo, have also announced plans to transition away from artificial colors. Executives at the soft drink company stated that they are quickening their transition to safer alternatives.

Popular fast-food chain In-N-Out has also decided to remove artificial dyes from its menu items, including strawberry milkshakes, pink lemonade, pickles, chilis and house spread. These moves reflect a growing consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food options.

RFK Jr.’s role in the removal of titanium dioxide

This decision follows a recent report from the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, chaired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which identified titanium dioxide as an additive of potential concern. The commission’s report suggested that the chemical may cause cellular and DNA damage, among other health issues.

“Based on all the evidence available, a concern for genotoxicity could not be ruled out, and given the many uncertainties, the panel concluded that E171 can no longer be considered as safe when used as a food additive,” the report stated.

Kennedy has been a vocal critic of harmful additives in food, particularly in processed products. His appointment as health Secretary by President Donald Trump has brought renewed focus to the issue.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a Washington-based activist organization focused on chemical safety, has been a leading voice in the push for the removal of titanium dioxide. EWG Vice President of Government Affairs Melanie Benesh credited state-level efforts for putting pressure on companies like Mars to change their recipes.

“The FDA [Food and Drug Administration] has said a lot of things about food additives, but we have not seen them take any enforceable actions yet,” she remarked. “What has unquestionably made a difference is all of the action at the state level.”

Mars has not provided details on whether the decision to remove titanium dioxide will extend to Skittles sold outside the United States.

Despite the EU ban, titanium dioxide remains an approved food additive in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand. However, the tide is turning, and more states are considering legislation to restrict or ban the use of the chemical.

In 2023, a high-profile effort in California to ban titanium dioxide was defeated, but other states continue to push for changes. The FDA is currently reviewing a petition to ban titanium dioxide, filed by the EWG in 2023.

Chemicals.news has more similar stories.

Watch this video about QAnon warnings regarding toxic titanium dioxide in Skittles and other candies by Mars.

This video is from the Andrew Zebrun III channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Everything about Skittles is artificial and toxic, just like all the false promises of liberal politicians.

California to BAN cancer-causing additives found in candies and other food products

The hidden danger in your food: Titanium dioxide and the health risks you need to know

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

BBC.com

Food-Safety.com

Brighteon.com