Attorney General Ken Paxton is turning up the heat on candy giant Mars, Incorporated. The Texas AG's office is launching an investigation into whether the company engaged in deceptive trade practices by failing to remove artificial colors from its U.S. products, despite promises to do so. Back in 2016, Mars cited a pledge to eliminate artificial colors from all its human food products. Years down the line, these same synthetic dyes are still found in treats like M&M's and Skittles stateside, while their European counterparts have ditched the artificial dyes.
A conceived initiative to promote better health among Americans, Paxton's scrutiny of Mars follows the lead of other confectionery behemoths who've altered their recipes. However, while publicly holding forth on the safety of artificial colors in food, claiming they pose "no known risks to human health or safety," Mars has contradicted scientific evidence linking artificial dyes to various health issues. These issues, ranging from ADHD and autism to cancer, are at the crux of Paxton's inquiry, as mentioned in a statement Texas Attorney General.
According to the Texas Attorney General, in a display of tenacity not uncommon to the AG's office, Paxton has issued a Civil Investigative Demand to Mars, seeking documentation related to their coloring practices. "Mars must remove toxic artificial dyes from its U.S. food products not only to honor its public commitment and ensure that it stays on the right side of the law, but also because it’s the right thing to do," Paxton stated, highlighting the progress in the food industry's shift away from synthetic colorings and chastising Mars for not following suit.
