Mars Snacking is launching new versions of several of its popular candy and gum products made without Food, Drug & Cosmetic colors in the United States.
The new options from M&M’S, Skittles, Starburst and Extra will be available on Amazon beginning in August, according to Mars. The company said it has spent more than a decade researching and testing new formulations and investing in manufacturing capabilities to support the products.
“For 115 years, Mars has been proud to bring our consumers the products they love, while never compromising on quality,” said Anton Vincent, President, Mars Snacking North America. “As we look ahead, Mars will continue to deliver against this standard, offering more choices to meet evolving needs and preferences.”
The new products include Skittles Original in strawberry, orange, lemon, grape and lime; Starburst Original Fruit Chews in strawberry, cherry, orange and lemon; Extra Spearmint Gum; and M&M’S Milk Chocolate in red, orange, green and yellow.
The initial M&M’S option made without FD&C colors will not include blue or brown candies as Mars continues to refine the formulation, the company said.
Existing M&M’S varieties featuring the original red, orange, yellow, green, blue and brown color assortment will continue to be available.
Mars said its teams have spent more than a decade researching and testing formulations and manufacturing advancements intended to maintain the colors, quality, taste and experience consumers expect from its products.
The company said it is continuing to explore alternatives to FD&C colors across its portfolio that meet its safety and quality standards and regulatory requirements.
“We know how much love people have for our brands, which have played a special part in celebrations big and small for generations,” said Jaime Boyes, Senior Vice President of R&D, Mars Snacking North America. “We’re dedicated to continuing to delight consumers by delivering the quality and experience they expect from Mars.”
