Mars, Incorporated says it will remove all artificial colors from its human food products to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Though many of the company’s products are already free of artificial colors, products across the range of its chocolate, gum, confection, food and drink businesses will be affected by the change, which will take place incrementally over the next five years.
Artificial colors pose no known risks to human health or safety, but consumers today are calling on food manufacturers to use more natural ingredients in their products.
Against this backdrop, Mars will work closely with its suppliers to find alternatives that not only meet the its strict quality and safety standards, but also maintain the vibrant, fun colors consumers have come to expect from the company’s brands.
“Eliminating all artificial colors from our human food portfolio is a massive undertaking, and one that will take time and hard work to accomplish,” said Grant F. Reid, president and CEO.
Removing all artificial colors from a human food portfolio that features more than 50 brands represents a complex challenge.
Mars’ strategy includes partnering with suppliers to identify new ingredients and formulas that meet its rigid safety and quality standards, addressing all legal and regulatory requirements, and creating accessible ways to gather input and feedback from consumers throughout the reformulation process.
