Texas AG Ken Paxton Investigates Mars Inc. for Deceptive Food Coloring Practices

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Mars, Incorporated for allegedly engaging in deceptive trade practices by failing to remove artificial colors from its U.S. food products despite a 2016 pledge to do so. While Mars eliminated these synthetic dyes from its European products, it continues to use them in popular candies like M&M's and Skittles sold in the United States, citing differing consumer expectations across markets. Paxton challenges Mars's claim that artificial colors pose no known health risks, highlighting scientific studies linking these dyes to conditions such as ADHD, autism, and cancer. The investigation is conducted under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which prohibits false or misleading business practices and allows for civil penalties. Paxton urged Mars to follow other companies like Nestle and Hershey in removing these artificial dyes to protect consumer health and comply with their public commitments. Mars has yet to publicly respond to the investigation.