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Mars Inc., the company behind Skittles, has officially removed titanium dioxide from all US versions of the candy.

The ingredient, which helps make food look brighter and shinier, has been under fire for years due to possible health risks.

Titanium dioxide was banned in the European Union in 2022 because scientists were worried it might damage DNA when eaten over time, Parade said.

While the ingredient is still legal in the US, Canada, and several other countries, critics have pushed for change.

Mars revealed that it quietly removed titanium dioxide from Skittles sold in the US by the end of last year.

The company had first promised to remove artificial colors back in 2016. However, it did not explain whether Skittles look or taste any different now.

The decision comes as concerns grow about food additives in the US President Donald Trump recently appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, and his office has highlighted additives like titanium dioxide as issues needing attention.

Mars Faces Pressure as States Target Titanium Dioxide

Although federal agencies haven't banned titanium dioxide, several state-level efforts have put pressure on companies.

In 2023, California tried to ban the ingredient but failed. Other states are still considering similar action.

According to the BBC, Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), said that state laws have been more effective than federal ones.

"What has unquestionably made a difference is all of the action at the state level," she said.

In 2023, the EWG teamed up with the Center for Food Safety to petition the FDA to ban titanium dioxide.

The FDA has not yet responded, and as of March 2024, it was still reviewing the ingredient's safety.

Mars has not confirmed if the removal of titanium dioxide will apply to Skittles sold in other countries.

A company spokesperson stated, "All our products are safe to enjoy and meet the high standards and applicable regulations set by food safety authorities around the world."

Skittles have been a favorite chewy candy in the US since 1981. Skittles, originally developed in the UK, became part of Mars' Wrigley division in 2009.

In 2022, the brand faced a lawsuit over its use of titanium dioxide, but the case was later dismissed.