Mars Incorporated has announced it will remove all artificial colours from its food products, including chocolate, gum, confection, food and drink.
Products across the range of the company’s chocolate, gum, confection, food and drink businesses will be affected by the change, which will take place incrementally over the next five years.
Although many of Mars’ products are already free of artificial colours, the company said it will expand the scope of the effort to its entire human food portfolio, that features more than 50 brands.
“We’re in the business of satisfying and delighting the people who love our products,” said Grant F. Reid, president and CEO of Mars, Incorporated.
“Eliminating all artificial colours from our human food portfolio is a massive undertaking, and one that will take time and hard work to accomplish. Our consumers are the boss and we hear them. If it’s the right thing to do for them, it’s the right thing to do for Mars.”
Currently Mars uses a variety of naturally sourced and artificial colours in its global product portfolio. Depending on consumer preferences, ingredient availability and local regulations, slightly different formulations and products may exist in different markets.
Mars’ strategy includes partnering with suppliers to identify new ingredients and formulas that meet its rigid safety and quality standards, addressing all legal and regulatory requirements, and creating accessible ways to gather input and feedback from consumers throughout the reformulation process.