Skittles candies sold in the United States no longer contain titanium dioxide, a synthetic color additive banned in Europe since 2022 over health concerns.
Mars, the parent company behind Skittles, confirmed the change in late May but did not disclose whether the popular candy’s appearance or flavor would be affected. Packaging updates reflecting the reformulation are still being rolled out.
Titanium dioxide, once used in Skittles to enhance color and shine, is a widely used food additive. While still approved for use in the U.S. by the Food and Drug Administration, the agency is reviewing a formal petition to ban it. Health advocates have long criticized the additive, citing studies that suggest it may damage DNA and cause oxidative stress, factors potentially linked to serious long-term health effects, including cancer and organ damage.
Food safety groups say the removal is a positive step but argue that it should not stop with Skittles. They are pressing Mars to eliminate titanium dioxide from all of its food products across brands and markets.
The decision to reformulate comes amid growing scrutiny of additives permitted in the U.S. but restricted or banned abroad. Titanium dioxide has been flagged in multiple public health reports for its potential toxicity and has become a focal point in discussions about improving food safety standards.
Source: Food and Wine