• by Tanya Gazdik , July 9, 2025

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is encountering pushback on his quest to eliminate synthetic dyes from some of American’s most beloved candies.

“Other than Froot Loops cereal, perhaps no food carries as much symbolism as M&M’s for Mr. Kennedy and the movement he calls ‘Make America Healthy Again,’” according to The New York Times. “Upon taking the reins at the Department of Health and Human Services, he made synthetic dyes the first target in his plan to rid the nation of ultra-processed foods.”

Kennedy announced in April that he had an “understanding” with food makers to remove petroleum-based dyes by the end of 2026  Last month, Nestle and ConAgra joined Kraft Heinz, General Mills and PepsiCo in signing on to the secretary’s plan. But there are holdouts. 

“The candy industry, which relies heavily on synthetic dyes, remains a significant obstacle, especially companies like Mars, the maker of M&M’s and Skittles,” according to Benzinga. “Mars recently removed titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, from Skittles but has refused to eliminate synthetic dyes without federal mandates.”

The National Confectioners Association has stated that the industry needs more time and alternatives to meet demand, warning that the use of natural colors could drive up prices.

“People can freely buy cannabis, THC products, alcohol, and cigarettes — but vibrantly colored candy is an issue? Give me a break,” says Christopher Gindlesperger, senior vice president of public affairs and communications for the National Confectioners Association, according to Fox Business. ”Consumers know that confectionery products are treats and that they contain sugar, food colors, and other FDA-approved ingredients, because candy is intrinsically transparent. People have a unique mindset when they enjoy chocolate and candy that is not present when interacting with other foods. Chocolate and candy are safe to enjoy as they have been for generations.”

U.S. consumers eat chocolate and candy two to three times per week, averaging about 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day. That’s less than the other categories of indulgent food that contain synthetic dyes, Gindlesperger adds. 

“While federal regulators have so far declined to crack down on artificial dyes, lawmakers at the state level have either introduced legislation or are considering proposals that would restrict or outright ban foods that contain synthetic coloring,” according to the New York Post.