Attorney General Ken Paxton has stated that Mars decided not to eliminate synthetic dyes from products sold in the U.S., despite having removed artificial colors from items sold in Europe.
There is a growing demand for food companies to eliminate artificial dyes, with companies like Nestle, Hershey, and Kraft Heinz announcing plans to phase out synthetic colors. However, Mars has not made a similar commitment.
Paxton’s office is investigating whether Mars’ failure to fulfill the 2016 pledge constitutes deceptive trade practices that infringe on consumers’ rights in the United States.
“It’s imperative for Mars to follow the footsteps of companies like Nestle and Hershey by removing synthetic dyes from their products,” Paxton emphasized. “For the well-being of Texans and all Americans, Mars must honor their 2016 pledge to eliminate these harmful ingredients.”
A spokesperson from Mars has declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings, mentioning that their ingredients comply with strict quality and safety regulations set by food safety authorities, including the FDA.
Mars is actively exploring alternative product options that meet safety criteria, technical requirements, and consumer preferences. The company plans to introduce more options sourced from natural ingredients in the near future.
Paxton has previously initiated investigations against General Mills, the maker of Lucky Charms, and W.K. Kellogg, the manufacturer of Froot Loops, for falsely promoting their cereals as healthy despite containing artificial food colorings. General Mills later agreed to remove artificial dyes from their products.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called on the industry to voluntarily eliminate six synthetic dyes by 2027. Some Republican-led states have even taken steps to ban these ingredients or impose labeling requirements.