Candy, a staple of celebrations and a symbol of sweet indulgence, has recently found itself at the center of a health controversy. Skittles, with their vibrant hues and sugary sweetness have long been synonymous with joy and indulgence; however, behind their cheerful façade lies a growing concern about their impact on health, prompting some places to take drastic measures, including bans.
The Ban on Skittles
The ban on Skittles and other similar candies stems from the presence of certain food additives that have raised health concerns. California, for instance, has passed the California Food Safety Act dubbed the “Skittles ban” to ban four chemicals commonly found in candies like Skittles. These include:
- Red dye No. 3: A colorant that has been banned in cosmetics due to cancer risks in animals.
- Potassium bromate: Commonly found in baked goods, it’s feared to be carcinogenic.
- Brominated vegetable oil: Used in citric sodas, it’s associated with nervous system harm.
- Propylparaben: Found in various foods, it’s linked to reproductive problems.
These chemicals are approved for consumption in the U.S. by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but are all banned in Europe due to safety concerns. The intention behind such legislation is not to ban the candies outright but to encourage companies to change their recipes to safer alternatives.
Health Concerns with Skittles and Other Candy
According to the Environmental Working Group, the additives addressed in this bill are used in roughly 12,000 other food products such as cereals, sodas and candies that are sold across the United States. This includes Entenmann’s Little Bites, Peeps, Candy Corn, Little Debbie’s Cosmic Brownies and more beloved junk food items.
The health concerns with Skittles and other candies revolve around the potential risks posed by their ingredients:
- Cancer Risk: Some of the banned additives have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
- Behavioral Issues in Children: Additives like Red dye No. 3 have been associated with hyperactivity in children.
- Reproductive Issues: Chemicals such as propylparaben have been connected to reproductive problems.
- Thyroid and Liver Problems: Brominated vegetable oil, for example, can cause thyroid and liver issues.
The European Union has already banned the use of these chemicals because of this scientific research on their effect on cancer, fertility and developmental problems in children.
The Industry’s Response
The food industry has been fighting against such bans, arguing that these additives are safe and used in compliance with food safety regulators, including the FDA. However, consumer advocacy groups and some health experts disagree, pointing to studies that show potential harm.
The debate over Skittles and other candies highlights the broader issue of food safety and the use of additives in our food supply. While the FDA maintains that these additives are safe under certain restrictions, the bans in other countries and the proposed legislation in places like California suggest a growing concern over the long-term health implications of these ingredients. As consumers, it’s important to stay informed about what goes into our food and to make choices that align with our health and safety priorities.
Healthy Alternatives
Consumers are increasingly becoming aware of the harmful effects from eating candies such as skittles and are seeking out alternative healthier options. Here’s a list of some recommendations:
- Fresh Fruit:
- Apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Orange or tangerine segments
- Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Grapes
- Dried Fruit (in moderation, as they are higher in sugar than fresh fruit):
- Dried apricots
- Raisins
- Dried cranberries (without added sugar)
- Banana chips (unsweetened)
- Nuts and Seeds:
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Vegetable Snacks:
- Carrot sticks with hummus
- Celery sticks with peanut butter
- Cucumber slices with a dash of salt and pepper
- Bell pepper strips with guacamole (I prefer to grill bell peppers)
- Whole-Grain Snacks:
- Air-popped popcorn (lightly salted)
- Whole-grain crackers with a slice of cheese
- Brown rice cakes with almond butter
- Yogurt and Dairy:
- Greek yogurt with honey and fresh fruit
- Cottage cheese
- Cheese sticks
- Homemade Treats:
- Energy balls made with oats, peanut butter, and a touch of honey (these are my personal favorite)
- Homemade fruit leather
- Baked apple chips
- Dark Chocolate (in moderation):
- A small piece of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- Dark chocolate-covered almonds or fruits
These options provide a range of flavors and textures to satisfy sweet cravings while offering more nutrients and fewer artificial additives than traditional candies.
Conclusion
This blog post aimed to provide an informative overview of why Skittles and other candies have been banned in some places and the health concerns associated with these sweets. As the conversation around food safety continues, it’s crucial to engage in discussions that lead to healthier and more transparent food practices.
