UK Food Standards Agency Recalls Jolly Rancher Candies Over Carcinogenic Mineral Oils

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued urgent warnings and recalls for several Jolly Rancher candy products due to contamination with mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH), chemicals linked to cancer risk and non-compliant with UK food safety laws. These products, including Hard Candy, Misfits Gummies, Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1, and Berry Gummies, are manufactured by The Hershey Company and sold across the UK, with enforcement action taken against illegal imports despite Hershey ceasing supply to the UK market. MOAH is classified as a genotoxic carcinogen that can damage DNA and increase cancer risk, especially in children and frequent consumers, while MOSH accumulates in body tissues and poses additional health risks. The controversy highlights a disparity between US and UK food safety standards, as these products remain available in the US where they meet regulatory requirements. Similar recalls and warnings have extended to other regions, including Hong Kong, where local authorities have also removed Jolly Rancher products from shelves following the UK alert. The FSA and related agencies emphasize the toxicological concerns, urging consumers and retailers to halt consumption and distribution to protect public health.