The U.K.’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a safety advisory against Jolly Rancher candies, citing the presence of Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH) and Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) as unsafe for consumption. The advisory covers all Jolly Rancher products, including hard candies, Misfits, Fruity 2 in 1s, and Berry Gummies, warning that continued consumption may pose long-term health risks. The FSA has instructed British consumers not to buy or eat the products. Although the alert did not mention the word ‘ban,’ the FSA said that it had ‘requested enforcing authorities in the U.K. to take action to remove products, to protect consumers.’
Jolly Ranchers were first introduced to the U.S. candy market in 1949. They come in a variety of flavors, including watermelon, cherry, blue raspberry, grape, and green apple. The candies were acquired by the Hershey Company in 1996, and the company has stated its commitment to product safety. Todd Scott, a spokesperson for the Hershey Company, said, ‘The safety and quality of Jolly Rancher candies is the company’s first priority, and consumers can rest assured that our products are safe to enjoy.’ Scott also acknowledged that ‘as a global brand with a wide audience, we also recognize our products can sometimes be purchased in markets other than those for which they were originally produced. In such cases, we cannot guarantee that the products meet the regulatory requirements of the end market, which may differ from those of the U.S.’.
Mineral oil hydrocarbons enter food through various means, including environmental contamination, the use of lubricants for machinery, release agents, processing aids, food or feed additives, and migration from food contact materials, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The negative health impacts of mineral oil hydrocarbons can vary widely. MOAH may act as genotoxic carcinogens, potentially damaging DNA and causing cancer, while some MOSH are known to accumulate in the liver and lymphoid system. The FDA also regulates the presence of hydrocarbons, noting that mineral oil may be safely used as a component of nonfood articles intended for use in contact with food, provided it meets certain rules.
The FSA said that while there is currently no immediate food safety risk, the presence of these hydrocarbons may pose long-term health concerns. The agency emphasized that ‘if you’ve eaten these products, there should be no immediate cause for concern, as food safety risk is low, but don’t eat any more.’ The FSA is working with enforcing authorities in the U.K. to remove the products from the market. The Hershey Company remains committed to addressing the issue and is in ongoing discussions with the FSA to bring Jolly Rancher products back to established retailers in the United Kingdom.