M&M, Skittles Maker Rejects RFK Jr.'s Call To Drop Synthetic Dyes

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is pushing to eliminate synthetic food dyes, but Mars refuses to remove them from its candies like M&M’s and Skittles, according to Benzinga. Mars says it will keep using synthetic dyes in its candies, reversing a 2016 pledge, and claims its products are safe and meet global food safety standards. Synthetic dyes have drawn controversy due to studies linking them to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and potential cancer risks, particularly in children. A 2024 study found that 28% of foods marketed to children contained synthetic dyes and often had higher sugar levels. RFK Jr. is calling for a nationwide ban on petroleum-based food dyes commonly found in children's snacks, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5. The effort is part of his "Make America Healthy Again" agenda targeting additives linked to health and behavioral issues. The National Confectioners Association defended synthetic dyes and argued candy is unfairly targeted compared to products like alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis.