Texas AG Paxton Targets Mars Over M&Ms and Skittles Artificial Dyes Scandal

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is taking a bold stand against candy giant Mars, the maker of M&Ms and Skittles, launching an investigation into what he calls deceptive and illegal practices surrounding the use of artificial dyes in their products. Paxton’s office claims that Mars has misrepresented the safety of these dyes, potentially violating Texas consumer rights.

This move aligns with the broader Make America Healthy Again initiative, championed by President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aiming to hold food companies accountable for misleading consumers about their ingredients. Paxton’s scrutiny zeroes in on Mars’ continued use of artificial colors in the U.S., despite phasing them out in Europe due to consumer demand for natural alternatives.

Back in 2016, Mars publicly pledged to eliminate artificial colors from its human food products, citing evolving consumer preferences. Yet, the company later backtracked, stating that many global consumers don’t view these dyes as a concern, prioritizing removal only in Europe. Paxton isn’t buying it. His office argues that Mars’ claim of artificial dyes posing no known health risks is misleading, pointing to studies linking these substances to serious issues like ADHD, autism, and even cancer.

Through a Civil Investigative Demand, Paxton is seeking documents from Mars to build his case. He’s adamant that the company must honor its 2016 commitment, not just to comply with the law, but to protect public health. "Mars must remove toxic artificial dyes from its U.S. products," Paxton declared, urging the company to follow the lead of competitors like Nestle and Hershey who’ve already taken steps to eliminate synthetic colorings.

Adding fuel to the fire, White House Senior Advisor Calley Means has criticized Mars for clinging to what he calls petroleum-based dyes with no nutritional value. This isn’t Paxton’s first rodeo either—his recent investigation into General Mills led to a commitment from the company to ditch artificial dyes, and he’s also targeting Kellogg’s for similar consumer protection violations.

As this battle over candy colors unfolds, it’s clear the push for safer, more transparent food practices is gaining serious traction. Will Mars sweeten the deal for American consumers, or will this investigation leave a sour taste? Stay tuned.