Investigation Launched in a Red State Over Deceptive Practices Accusations Against M&M's and Skittles Manufacturer
## Investigation Launched Against Mars Inc. Over Artificial Dyes in Candy
In a significant move, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a formal investigation into Mars Inc., the parent company of popular brands such as M&M’s and Skittles, over allegations of deceptive trade practices and violations of Texas consumer rights related to the use of artificial dyes in candies[1][2][3].
The investigation, which focuses on Mars’ failure to fulfill its 2016 public pledge to remove all artificial colors from its human food products in the United States[1][2][5], has been spurred by concerns about potential health risks associated with these additives[1][2][3]. Paxton’s office has issued a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) to Mars to obtain relevant documents as part of this proceeding[1].
The investigation is noteworthy because, while Mars removed artificial colors from products sold in Europe, it has not done so for the U.S. market[1][4]. The Texas Attorney General’s office asserts that Mars’ continued use of artificial dyes—which some studies have linked to health concerns like ADHD, autism, and cancer—is inconsistent with their public commitments and potentially misleading to consumers[1][2][3].
Mars has disputed the claimed health risks of these additives[3]. The company stated that it had found that "many of our consumers across the world do not, in fact, find artificial colors to be ingredients of concern" and will continue to use artificial colors in its products in markets outside of Europe[1].
In 2016, Mars publicly committed to removing all artificial colors from its human food products globally[1][2][5]. However, the company subsequently implemented this change only in Europe, not in the U.S., citing different regulatory environments and consumer expectations[1][4].
Texas officials are urging Mars to align its U.S. products with its European standards and honor its original pledge, especially as competitors like Nestle and Hershey have taken steps to remove synthetic dyes from their offerings[1][2][3].
### Key Points
- **Investigation Status:** Active, led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, focused on consumer protection and alleged deceptive practices[1][2][3]. - **Mars’ Commitment:** Mars removed artificial colors in Europe but continues to use them in the U.S., contrary to its 2016 pledge[1][4][5]. - **Health Concerns:** The investigation cites potential links between artificial dyes and adverse health outcomes, which Mars disputes[1][3]. - **Industry Context:** Competitors like Nestle and Hershey have moved away from synthetic dyes, increasing pressure on Mars to follow suit[1][2][3].
Mars Inc. faces significant legal and public relations challenges in the U.S. as a result of this investigation, with no indication yet of any imminent change in its American product formulations. Paxton has urged Mars to remove toxic artificial dyes from its U.S. food products, citing both its public commitment and the health of consumers.
- The ongoing investigation against Mars Inc by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton revolves around the use of artificial dyes in candies, falling under the umbrella of 'general-news' and 'health'.
- The investigation points towards potential deceptive trade practices and violations of consumer rights, which is a matter of 'politics' and 'health-and-wellness'.
- The focus of the investigation is Mars Inc's failure to honor its 2016 pledge to remove artificial colors from human food products globally, including 'nutrition' and 'lifestyle' concerns.
- Consequences of consuming food with artificial dyes may include health risks like ADHD, autism, and cancer, making it a matter of 'crime-and-justice', 'health', and 'food-and-drink'.
- The investigation has sparked discussions within the industry, as competitors like Nestle and Hershey have already removed synthetic dyes from their offerings, creating a shift in 'science', 'politics', and 'lifestyle' trends.
