Introduction
It’s no secret that candy is a popular treat for people of all ages. But did you know that some of the most popular candy still contains a toxic chemical that could be dangerous to your health? In this article, we’ll take a look at why this chemical is still present in some of the most popular candy and what you can do to avoid it. We’ll also discuss the potential health risks associated with consuming this chemical and what you can do to protect yourself. So, if you’re a fan of candy, read on to learn more about this potentially dangerous ingredient.
This Popular Candy Still Has a Toxic Chemical And Here’s Why It Might Be Dangerous
It’s no secret that candy is a popular treat for kids and adults alike. But what many people don’t know is that some of the most popular candy brands contain a potentially dangerous chemical. This chemical, called 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), is a byproduct of the caramel coloring process and has been linked to cancer in animal studies.
4-MEI is found in many popular candy brands, including M&M’s, Skittles, and Twizzlers. While the levels of 4-MEI in these candies are generally low, the World Health Organization has classified it as a possible carcinogen. This means that it could potentially cause cancer in humans, although more research is needed to confirm this.
The good news is that many candy companies are taking steps to reduce the levels of 4-MEI in their products. For example, Mars, the maker of M&M’s, has announced that it is working to reduce the levels of 4-MEI in its products. Other companies, such as Hershey’s and Nestle, have also taken steps to reduce the levels of 4-MEI in their products.
While it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with 4-MEI, it’s also important to remember that the levels of this chemical in candy are generally low. As long as you’re not eating large amounts of candy, the risk of developing cancer from 4-MEI is likely to be very small.
If you’re concerned about the potential risks associated with 4-MEI, it’s a good idea to check the labels of the candy you buy. Many companies are now listing the levels of 4-MEI on their products, so you can make an informed decision about which candy to buy.
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that candy is still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. As long as you’re aware of the potential risks associated with 4-MEI, you can still enjoy your favorite candy without worrying about your health.
While it has long been advertised that eating Skittles allows consumers to “taste the rainbow,” each bite could contain potentially toxic nanoparticles, according to a recent class action lawsuit.
It was filed in mid-July in California and claims the Mars Corporation knowingly includes high levels of the chemical titanium dioxide in the ingredients—which is used to give the candy its color—but is being banned in Europe for being a carcinogen in August.
It also says the company has failed to adequately warn customers about its dangers and thus the chemical makes Skittles “unsafe for human consumption.” The suit says not warning customers about this ingredient is a “fraud of omission” which makes Mars guilty of multiple “violations of California law,” according to the Washington Post.
In 2016, Mars said it would stop using titanium dioxide in all its candies within five years. Yet, the lawsuit argues that has not happened into 2022, noting that other colorful sweets like Nerds, Sour Patch Kids, and Sweedish Fish don’t use it.
In response to the lawsuit, Mars says the levels it uses in Skittles are FDA-approved and are nowhere near enough to cause harm.
The food additive is mostly found in candies but is used in some makeup or medicine products. It is tasteless, colorless, and odorless. Its main function is to make colorful food more visually appealing, according to the European Food Safety Authority. However, in high concentrations, the white, powdery substance is suspected to cause cancer, particularly in the lungs.
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Another grocery food staple called out for its toxic ingredients is Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, which allegedly contains chemicals that have been connected with allergies, asthma, obesity, and hormone interference in children. The major blue box brand received a lawsuit last year regarding phthalates it has had in its product since 2017.
Outside of the candy world, there are far more dangerous foods hurting consumers right now. Recently, a recalled snack from the delivery service Daily Heavest may have caused an outbreak of severe illnesses in almost 500 people, including jaundice, stomach pains, and more in 34 states.
Amber Lake