You probably know M&M’s and Skittles as colorful candies that you or your kids might reach for as a treat. But right now, MARS—the company behind both of those brands—is in the spotlight for a different reason. They are pushing back on a major health campaign led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
In April, RFK Jr. launched the Make America Healthy Again initiative, aiming to cut synthetic food dyes from products sold in the U.S. But while big names like Nestlé, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, and General Mills have agreed to the plan, MARS is not on board. At least, not yet.
Why is RFK Jr. targeting synthetic food dyes?
The focus of this new health push is simple: get rid of synthetic dyes in the American food supply—especially the ones linked to hyperactivity and behavioral issues in children.
According to studies cited by Kennedy’s team, certain petroleum-based food dyes can affect developing brains. These dyes are already banned in many countries across Europe, and even in some of MARS’s international products. But they are still widely used in candies, cereals, and drinks sold here in the U.S.
That is why Kennedy has been urging companies to take voluntary steps to remove these additives, rather than wait for federal bans.
What other companies are doing to follow the initiative
So far, several major food manufacturers have stepped up. Big names like:
- Nestlé
- Kraft Heinz
- General Mills
- PepsiCo
- ConAgra
…have all agreed to start removing synthetic dyes from their products in the U.S. within the next two years.
These companies say they want to stay ahead of any regulations and show customers they care about health. Some have already made similar changes to their products overseas, especially in Europe, where stricter rules are already in place.
Why mars says it is not ready to commit
MARS, however, is not on that list. And that has raised eyebrows—especially since the company once promised to remove artificial colors back in 2016.
When asked why they are now holding back, a MARS spokesperson told Fox Business:
“We are aware of the administration’s request and our technical experts are exploring alternatives… At this time, we have not yet identified fully effective solutions and believe it is premature to make commitments until we are certain they can be fulfilled.”
In short, they are saying they want to find the right dye alternatives first—ones that meet safety, taste, and appearance standards.
They also stressed that all MARS products already meet FDA regulations and are safe to eat, saying, “Our products continue to be safe to enjoy and meet the high standards and applicable regulations set by food safety authorities.”
Health advocates and government leaders respond to mars
Not everyone is happy with MARS’s response. Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson Andrew Nixon called the company’s stance “disappointing.” He pointed out that MARS has already removed synthetic dyes from its products in Europe but refuses to do the same in the U.S.
“Secretary Kennedy is committed to encouraging the removal of artificial dyes from the food supply, particularly those linked to behavioral and developmental risks in children,” Nixon said.
He also added that other companies have already acted, proving that clear, science-based standards can push the industry to do the right thing.
What candy makers are saying in defense
The National Confectioners Association, which represents MARS and other candy brands, has fired back. Senior Vice President Christopher Gindlesperger said:
“People can freely buy cannabis, THC products, alcohol, and cigarettes—but vibrantly colored candy is an issue? Give me a break.”
He added that candy is a treat—not a staple food—and most people know it is made with sugar and food coloring. He also noted that Americans only eat about 40 calories worth of candy per day on average, far less than other indulgent snacks.
Still, he emphasized that the industry follows science-based evaluations and supports FDA oversight, not sudden political pressure.
