A Rainbow of Chemicals: The Dyes in Skittles
For years, the vibrant, candy-coated rainbow of Skittles has been a testament to modern food engineering. However, the colors are not derived from fruit but from a cocktail of artificial, petroleum-based dyes. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) identified multiple food additives of concern in original Skittles, highlighting their status as an ultra-processed food.
The Specific Dyes Used
An original pack of Skittles contains a variety of artificial colors, each designed to create a specific hue. The list of colors includes:
- Red 40 Lake & Red 40: A common red dye used to create the vibrant red and orange colors.
- Yellow 5 Lake & Yellow 5: Known as Tartrazine, this dye provides the bright yellow color.
- Yellow 6 Lake & Yellow 6: Provides a yellowish-orange hue.
- Blue 2 Lake: Contributes to the candy's purplish-blue color.
- Blue 1 Lake & Blue 1: Also known as Brilliant Blue, it helps create the blue and purple colors.
The Controversial Additive: Titanium Dioxide
Another critical component in the candy's colorful appearance was titanium dioxide. This white pigment was historically used to give candies a shiny, bright appearance. However, its use has become increasingly controversial due to health concerns. In 2021, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) determined that titanium dioxide could no longer be considered safe as a food additive due to potential genotoxicity (damage to DNA). Subsequently, the EU banned its use in 2022. Mars, the parent company of Skittles, has since phased out titanium dioxide from its U.S. products, with the change quietly happening by December 2024, though Skittles sold internationally and older stock may still contain it. This move came after a 2022 class-action lawsuit filed in California and broader regulatory pressure in the US.
Nutrition Diet: The Place for Candy and Processed Foods
While the focus on food dyes is important, it's crucial to view Skittles within the broader context of a nutrition diet. These candies are an ultra-processed food, meaning they contain high levels of sugar and artificial ingredients with very little, if any, nutritional value. A typical serving is primarily composed of added sugar and corn syrup.
For a balanced diet, treats like Skittles should be enjoyed sparingly. The potential impact of artificial dyes, such as their suggested link to hyperactivity in some children, adds another layer of consideration for consumers. Recent announcements by Mars Wrigley to release dye-free versions of some of their most popular candies by 2026, including Skittles Original, reflect growing consumer awareness and demand for more natural ingredients.
How Food Dye Regulations Are Evolving
The landscape of food dye regulation is changing rapidly. The FDA recently banned Red Dye No. 3, with a phase-out period extending to 2027. This follows the example of countries in the EU that have long held stricter regulations on food additives. The ban is part of a broader plan announced in 2025 to remove petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the US food supply, with other dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 potentially next on the list.
This shift is forcing candy manufacturers like Mars to explore natural alternatives, though challenges remain in replicating the vibrant colors and stability that consumers expect.
Natural vs. Artificial: Navigating Candy Choices
| Feature | Skittles (Conventional) | Natural-Dye Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Coloring Source | Petroleum-based artificial dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, etc.) and historically, titanium dioxide. | Plant-based sources like beet juice, turmeric, and spirulina extracts. |
| Appearance | Bright, intensely vibrant colors. | Often more muted and earthy colors; shades can vary slightly by batch. |
| Processing | Highly ultra-processed with added sugars, artificial flavors, and waxes. | Less complex ingredients, often organic, and may contain fewer artificial additives overall. |
| Ingredient Concerns | Linked to potential behavioral issues in some children; contains controversial additives. | Minimal health concerns related to colorants, though still a high-sugar food. |
| Cost | Typically lower cost due to synthetic, mass-produced ingredients. | Higher cost due to more expensive, natural ingredient sourcing. |
| Availability | Ubiquitous in mainstream grocery stores and retailers. | Found primarily in specialty, health food, or organic retailers. |
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Yes, Skittles have historically and continue to use artificial food dyes, though the company is adapting to changing consumer demands and regulatory environments. For years, the candy relied on a blend of synthetic colors, including the recently removed titanium dioxide, to create its signature rainbow. From a nutrition diet perspective, they are a high-sugar, ultra-processed treat with no nutritional benefit, meant for occasional indulgence. The move towards offering dye-free options and the broader push by regulators to restrict artificial colors indicate a growing awareness of ingredient quality. Ultimately, making informed dietary choices about candy involves understanding the ingredients, moderation, and staying updated on evolving food regulations.
For more information on food additives and healthy eating, visit the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
