The Truth About M&Ms and Insect-Derived Ingredients
For years, a persistent myth has circulated that the shiny, hard shells of M&M's are coated with an insect-derived substance. This has often been linked to ingredients used in other candies, but the specific claim about M&Ms is an urban legend. In reality, the crisp shell of an M&M is made from sugar and corn syrup that is then buffed to a high gloss, not from the insect resin known as shellac.
This confusion is understandable, as some common candy ingredients do come from insects. However, when it comes to the M&M brand, this is where the myth departs from the facts. It’s important for consumers to understand the difference between specific candies and the broader industry practices that may have fueled this misinformation.
Dissecting Insect-Derived Ingredients in Confectionery
To understand why the M&M rumor exists, one must look at the wider world of candy production. There are two primary insect-derived ingredients commonly used in the confectionery industry:
- Carmine (Cochineal Extract): This is a vibrant red dye made from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects, which live on cacti. It is used in some red, pink, and purple candies, yogurts, and juices to achieve a stable, deep color. As of 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires this ingredient to be clearly labeled as "carmine" or "cochineal extract". While a natural alternative to synthetic dyes, it is not suitable for vegans or people with cochineal allergies. M&M's, at least in the US, typically use artificial dyes like Red 40 for their red coloring.
- Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze): This resin, also known as "confectioner's glaze" or "resinous glaze," is secreted by the female lac bug. It is used to provide a shiny, protective coating on many candies, preventing them from melting or becoming sticky. While it gives many confections their glossy look, M&M's do not use shellac. Candies like candy corn, some jelly beans, Whoppers, and Junior Mints are known to use this glaze.
M&M's vs. Other Candies: A Closer Look at Ingredients
The most important distinction is recognizing that what applies to one candy does not necessarily apply to all. Below is a comparison to clarify the common ingredients.
| Feature | M&Ms (Most Varieties) | Other Candies (Potentially) |
|---|---|---|
| Insect-derived dye | No (Typically uses artificial dyes like Red 40) | Yes (Using Carmine/Cochineal for red/pink) |
| Insect-derived glaze | No (Shells are buffed sugar) | Yes (Using Confectioner's Glaze/Shellac) |
| Dairy content | Yes (Milk chocolate, making them non-vegan) | Varies by product |
| Vegan-friendly | No (Due to milk and potential non-vegan flavors) | No (If containing carmine or shellac) |
| Kosher-friendly | Varies by rabbinic opinion on shellac and specific certification | Varies by product and certification |
Decoding Labels: What to Look For
For consumers with specific dietary preferences or restrictions, understanding how to read ingredient labels is crucial. The FDA requires clear labeling of ingredients that can impact diet or trigger allergies.
When examining a candy's ingredients, here's what to look for:
- "Carmine" or "Cochineal Extract": These terms indicate the use of the red dye derived from cochineal insects.
- "Confectioner's Glaze," "Resinous Glaze," or "Shellac": These names signify a coating derived from the lac bug.
- Milk Ingredients: Even without insect products, ingredients like milk, whey, or casein can make a product unsuitable for vegans.
- Artificial Colors: Ingredients like Red 40 are often used as alternatives to carmine for coloring, as is the case with M&M's.
It's important to remember that these additives are FDA-approved as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption. However, their origin makes them a point of interest for those with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns.
Conclusion: Informed Choices for Your Diet
To definitively answer the question, Do M&Ms have insects in them?, the answer is no, M&Ms do not contain insects or insect-derived products like shellac or carmine. The rumor likely stems from the fact that other common candies do use these ingredients, leading to widespread consumer confusion. By understanding the difference between specific candy brands and the broader confectionery industry, consumers can make more informed choices. For vegans, those observing kosher diets, or people with allergies, learning to identify ingredients like carmine and shellac is the key to ensuring dietary compliance.
Ultimately, while the idea of bugs in candy can be startling, it's a matter of knowing what to look for on ingredient labels. The M&M brand has its own specific ingredient list, and the notorious insect-derived ingredients are not on it. For more information on food labeling requirements, resources from organizations like the Center for Science in the Public Interest can be invaluable.
