The vibrant colors of popular candies like Skittles have long been a source of fascination and, for some, suspicion. A common rumor that has persisted for years involves the use of insects as an ingredient. While this may seem far-fetched, the truth is that older versions of Skittles did, in fact, contain insect-derived ingredients. The change in their formula serves as a significant example of how consumer awareness and shifting dietary preferences can impact food production. Examining this history reveals important insights for anyone trying to navigate a healthy nutrition diet.
The History of Skittles' Insect Ingredients
For decades, the candy industry relied on natural colorants, and some of the most potent red dyes came from an unexpected source: the cochineal beetle. A small, parasitic insect native to tropical and subtropical areas of South America and Mexico, the female cochineal produces a brilliant red pigment known as carminic acid. When the insects are harvested, dried, and crushed, they produce a carmine dye (also labeled as cochineal extract or E120) that was widely used in foods and cosmetics.
Before 2015, carmine was a key ingredient for the red Skittles. The use of this insect-derived dye meant that Skittles were not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with certain religious dietary restrictions. In addition to carmine, another insect byproduct, shellac, was historically used to give Skittles and many other candies a glossy, protective coating. Shellac is a resin secreted by the female lac bug.
Under increasing pressure from animal welfare organizations like PETA and a growing movement toward more transparent and plant-based ingredients, Mars, Inc. (the parent company of Skittles) made a significant change. They removed both carmine and gelatin, another animal-derived ingredient, from their formula. This was a major shift for the brand, and for the red Skittle, it meant the end of its insect-based color. The change occurred roughly between 2009 (for gelatin) and 2015 (for carmine), though it is always wise to check the ingredients list as formulas can vary slightly by region.
What's in Modern Skittles? A Look at Current Ingredients
Today, Skittles are produced without any insect-derived ingredients. The vibrant colors are now created using a combination of artificial food dyes. The red color, once sourced from cochineal, is now achieved with Red 40, a synthetic dye. For the signature shine, Carnauba wax, a plant-based wax from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera palm, has replaced the insect-derived shellac.
Modern Skittles' ingredients typically include:
- Sugar: The primary ingredient, providing sweetness and the hard shell structure.
- Corn Syrup: A sweetener and binding agent that contributes to the chewy texture.
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil: A type of fat used in the candy's production.
- Citric Acid: Gives the candies a tart flavor.
- Tapioca Dextrin: A starch-based binder and coating agent.
- Modified Corn Starch: Another starch used for texture and binding.
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: Provides the various fruity flavors.
- Colors: Includes a range of artificial colors such as Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 2 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Blue 1 Lake, and Titanium Dioxide, though the use of some, like Titanium Dioxide, has recently been questioned or phased out in some regions.
- Sodium Citrate: An acidity regulator.
- Carnauba Wax: The plant-based glazing agent for shine.
The Broader Picture: Diet and Food Additives
The story of Skittles' ingredient evolution highlights the importance of understanding food additives in our nutrition diet. While a quick look at the ingredients list can clarify if a product is vegan, it can also prompt deeper questions about the nutritional value and long-term health effects of processed foods.
Insect-Based Dyes vs. Artificial Alternatives
When comparing the old formula with the new, both natural and artificial colorants have their own set of considerations.
| Aspect | Carmine (Pre-2015 Skittles) | Artificial Colors (Modern Skittles) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Cochineal beetles, a natural source. | Petroleum-based synthetic chemicals. |
| Dietary Suitability | Not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or certain religious diets. | Considered vegan-friendly, but requires scrutiny for other additives. |
| Health Concerns | Known to cause allergic reactions, including rare cases of anaphylaxis, in a small portion of the population. | Some studies and advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential health effects, particularly in children. |
| Perception | Often viewed as more "natural" but can be a surprise for those unaware of its origins. | Widely understood to be artificial, raising concerns for those prioritizing whole foods. |
Mindful Choices for Your Nutrition Diet
The modern Skittles formula, free of insect-derived dyes, does not mean they are a healthy choice. Like most candies, they are ultra-processed foods, high in sugar and low in nutritional value. Consuming high amounts of added sugars, found in products like Skittles, is associated with a higher risk of health issues such as heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. For those aiming for a balanced nutrition diet, these candies should be an occasional treat, not a staple.
This shift in ingredients, driven by consumer demand, underscores a larger trend in food production. Manufacturers are responding to public preferences for ingredients that align with specific dietary values, be they vegan, allergen-free, or simply more transparent. For a consumer, this means that actively reading food labels is more important than ever. The Skittles example is a powerful reminder that what's on the ingredients list today may not have been there a few years ago, and understanding those changes is key to making informed dietary decisions.
Conclusion: Mindful Choices for Your Nutrition Diet
Ultimately, the answer to 'what insect is in skittles' is none—at least not in current versions. The brand, under pressure from public opinion and dietary trends, removed the cochineal dye (carmine) and shellac, replacing them with artificial dyes and plant-based waxes. This change made the candy suitable for vegans and vegetarians, addressing a major point of consumer concern. However, for those focused on a balanced nutrition diet, the change does not alter the fundamental nature of Skittles as a high-sugar, low-nutrient, ultra-processed food. The best practice remains to scrutinize all food labels and understand what you are consuming, regardless of its source, and to moderate your intake of such treats as part of an overall healthy eating pattern.
