In 2016, Mars, Incorporated made a promise to the American people and said they would remove all artificial dyes from their m&ms by 2020.  This was in response to a petition started in 2013 (original petition).  Many parents of children with allergies or adverse reactions to dyes celebrated and eagerly looked forward to the change.

However, 2020 came and went with no change. Although the world was busy with the COVID pandemic, Mars, Incorporated didn’t have setbacks. They decided that they didn’t value their customers more than they valued money. In a response to one concerned parent, they believe their American customers prefer the bright colors.mars-fails-fulfill-commitment-remove-dyes-its-american-products-cspi-says-20210203

Prefer them to what? We haven’t been given an option. And seeing as how they already make a product with fewer dyes for their European market, how difficult would it be to offer a similar product?  Plus, this is not a trend that is going away. As more people learn about the negative effects of artificial dyes, they are trying to avoid them in foods, beauty products, and supplements.  Europe already knows how harmful artificial dyes can be, and many are banned due to their known connection with behavior issues and adverse affects on health. California banned red dye 3 as of October, 2023.

So let’s make our voices heard. Mars, Incorporated, fulfill your promise and make natural dye m&ms!