The question of whether M&M's contain FD&C Red Dye No. 3 is a common concern for consumers mindful of food additives. The short and direct answer for current U.S. products is no. However, the history behind M&M's use of red dyes is complex and reflects shifting consumer preferences and regulatory scrutiny over the decades.
The Red Dye Scare of the 1970s and 1980s
The story begins well before the current discussion of Red Dye No. 3. In the mid-1970s, a major public scare erupted regarding FD&C Red Dye No. 2, also known as amaranth. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned Red Dye No. 2 over safety concerns, the subsequent public apprehension impacted all red-colored food products. As a result, Mars, Incorporated, the maker of M&M's, voluntarily removed the red candies from its packets in 1976 to avoid any negative association, even though their red M&M's were colored with the less controversial Red Dye No. 3.
For over a decade, red M&M's were absent from the bags. When they were finally reintroduced in 1987, the red color was created using a different combination of dyes, including Red Dye No. 40, which remains in use today. Red Dye No. 3 was also temporarily part of this reintroduction but has since been dropped from the U.S. recipe.
Current M&M's Dyes and Ingredients
Today, U.S. M&M's rely on a blend of different FD&C dyes and other ingredients to achieve their signature colors. For example, a look at the ingredient list for Peanut M&M's reveals a combination of dyes used to create the colorful shells.
- Colors (U.S. M&M's):
- Blue 1
- Blue 1 Lake
- Blue 2
- Blue 2 Lake
- Red 40
- Red 40 Lake
- Yellow 5
- Yellow 5 Lake
- Yellow 6
- Yellow 6 Lake
Comparing U.S. vs. European M&M's Ingredients
Consumer and regulatory environments differ across the world, leading to variations in the ingredients used in M&M's. Notably, many manufacturers, including those producing M&M's, have shifted to safer or natural food colorings in compliance with stricter European standards.
| Feature | U.S. M&M's (Milk Chocolate) | E.U. M&M's (Netherlands Example) |
|---|---|---|
| Dyes | Contains FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2 | Uses carmine (E120), E162, E170, E133, E100, E160a, E150a, E160e, E132, E153, E163, E150c, E150d |
| Sourcing | Artificial FD&C colors | Mixture of artificial and natural colors (e.g., carmine from insects, beetroot concentrate) |
| Glazing Agents | Carnauba Wax, Gum Acacia | Beeswax, Carnauba Wax |
The Ongoing Conversation About Food Dyes
The discussion surrounding food dyes continues to evolve. In late 2023, California enacted a law banning FD&C Red Dye No. 3 and other additives from foods sold in the state, effective in 2027. While M&M's had already removed Red Dye No. 3 from their products, the move highlights a growing consumer demand for clearer labeling and more natural ingredients. Furthermore, Mars has announced plans to offer options free of synthetic FD&C colors in 2026 for M&M's and other products, demonstrating a response to evolving consumer preferences.
In addition to the public health dialogue, recent legal action has brought M&M's colorants under greater scrutiny. In July 2025, the Texas Attorney General's office initiated an investigation into Mars Wrigley for alleged “deceptive trade practices” regarding its use of synthetic dyes in U.S. products, contrasting with its 2016 pledge to remove all artificial colors globally. This legal and consumer pressure reinforces the importance of food additive choices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, consumers concerned about Red Dye No. 3 can be assured that it is not currently an ingredient in M&M's in the United States. The company removed it from its recipe years ago following the broader "red dye scare" and has moved towards a different set of approved color additives. However, it is essential for consumers to stay informed about the specific ingredients and regional variations. With recent regulatory actions and company announcements from Mars, the future may see even more options with natural alternatives in the market, further addressing consumer health concerns and preferences. Consumers are always encouraged to read ingredient labels and be aware of their local regulations, as formulations can change over time. For more information on food dye regulation, you can consult the official FDA website, which provides current information on color additive safety.
