Skittles to Remove Titanium Dioxide Amid Health Concerns
Mars Wrigley, the parent company of Skittles, has announced that it will no longer include titanium dioxide in its U.S. products. This decision follows growing concerns about the additive’s potential health impacts, including its possible role in causing DNA damage. The company emphasized its commitment to food safety, stating that its products meet global standards and regulations. While titanium dioxide is still used in many food items worldwide, the U.S. decision follows the European Union’s ban in 2022, which was based on findings of genotoxicity and potential carcinogenic effects.
According to a search of the FDA’s FoodData Central website, there are 4,362 candies containing titanium dioxide. The European Union’s ban in 2022 was based on a report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which pointed to genotoxicity. The EFSA report noted that genotoxicity refers to the ability of a chemical substance to damage DNA, the genetic material of cells. Experimental animal inhalation studies by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found titanium dioxide to be a ‘possible carcinogenic to humans.’
Mars Wrigley’s spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the company’s commitment to quality has enabled it to be enjoyed by consumers for over a century, and nothing is more important than the safety of its products. The company reaffirmed that all its products are safe to enjoy and meet the high standards and applicable regulations set by food safety authorities around the world.
The United States has not yet banned titanium dioxide, but Mars Wrigley’s decision to remove it from Skittles reflects the growing influence of health advocacy and regulatory shifts in the food industry. The company’s actions may signal a broader trend toward reevaluating the safety of common food additives, especially in light of recent scientific findings and public health concerns.
While the move is primarily a response to health concerns, it also aligns with the broader context of food safety initiatives in the U.S. and Europe. The Make America Healthy Again Commission, chaired by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., released a report last week that assessed chronic diseases, particularly those affecting children. The report identified titanium dioxide as a potential concern, highlighting its widespread use in various foods and the possible risks associated with its consumption.
As a result of this decision, consumers may notice a change in the color of Skittles, as titanium dioxide is often used to enhance the appearance of candies. However, the company has not provided specific details on what will replace the additive. The shift away from titanium dioxide represents a significant step in the ongoing evaluation of food additives and their impact on public health.