M&M’s and Fruit Loops — two symbols of dyes in processed food — are resisting RFK, Jr.’s call for ‘voluntary’ replacements

[A]fter he declared war on synthetic food dyes, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has already secured the cooperation of the makers of some of America’s most colorful culinary products. 

…

But the candy industry and its most colorful chocolate treat, M&M’s, are a big obstacle standing between Mr. Kennedy and the ability to claim total victory.

Other than Froot Loops cereal, perhaps no food carries as much symbolism as M&M’s for Mr. Kennedy and the movement he calls “Make America Healthy Again.” 

One reason for the candy industry’s resistance is that it has been down this road before.

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Mars already tried, and abandoned, a plan to remove synthetic food dyes…

…European consumers wanted the dyes removed, but American consumers preferred the artificially colored treats. Mars snacks sold in the United States, therefore, remained unchanged.

Shortly after Mr. Kennedy was sworn in, he met with food manufacturers — but not candy makers — and told them he wanted them to eliminate the dyes. When the secretary made his announcement in April, Dr. Marty Makary, the F.D.A. commissioner, said compliance would be voluntary, at least at first.

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