Skittles are one of the most popular candies in the world, with millions of people enjoying their fruity flavors and colorful appearance. But recently, some rumors have been circulating online that Skittles are banned in California, the most populous state in the US. Is there any truth to these claims, or are they just a hoax? In this article, we will explore the facts behind the rumored Skittles ban in California, and what it means for you and your favorite candies.
What are Skittles and Why Are They Popular?
Skittles are a kind of candy that are soft and chewy and have different colors and flavors. Each candy has an “S” letter on it and is covered with a hard sugar shell. Skittles have a fruit flavor, and the first flavors were grape, orange, strawberry, lemon, and lime. Skittles are famous for its slogan “Taste the Rainbow”, which started in 1994 and is one of the longest-lasting advertising campaigns in history.
Skittles are popular because they give a fun and colorful way to eat candy. Skittles are liked by people of all ages, but especially by children and teenagers who like the bright colors and the fruit flavors. Skittles are also popular because they have many different kinds and flavors to pick from, such as Tropical, Sour, Wild Berry, and Smoothie Mix. Skittles are also easy to share and mix with other candies, making new combinations and tastes.
Skittles have gained significant global popularity, being widely distributed throughout over 65 countries. Skittles, a confectionery product, has the position of the second most favored candy in the United States, while concurrently enjoying the highest level of popularity among youngsters residing in North America. Skittles have also been supported by celebrities and athletes, such as Marshawn Lynch, who said that Skittles helped him in his football career.
Why are some people saying that Skittles are banned in California?
Some online posts have been spreading the false rumor that Skittles are banned in California, the US state with the largest population. This is not true, but it is based on a misunderstanding of a new law that was passed by the California governor on October 7, 2023. The law called California Food Safety Act, prohibits four chemicals from being used in processed foods that are sold or made in the state. These chemicals are:
Brominated vegetable oil (BVO): This is an artificial substance that is added to some drinks with citrus flavor to prevent the flavor oils from separating. BVO can cause problems with the thyroid, memory, skin, and nerves.
Potassium bromate (KBrO3): This is a chemical that is used to make flour whiter and stronger for baking. Potassium bromate can cause cancer in animals and is considered a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Propylparaben (C10H12O3): This is a preservative that is used to stop mold and bacteria from growing in some candies, baked goods, and salad dressings. Propylparaben can interfere with hormones, lower sperm count, and increase the risk of breast cancer.
Red Dye No. 3 (E127): This is a synthetic colorant that is used to give a red or pink color to some candies, maraschino cherries, ice creams, and cosmetics. Red Dye No. 3 can cause thyroid tumors in rats and may raise the chance of thyroid cancer in humans.
These chemicals are already banned by the European Union, except for Red Dye No. 3 in candied cherries. The California Food Safety Act will require food companies to use safer alternatives that they already use in other countries by 2027.
How Skittles Violate the California Food Safety Act
The results show that Skittles have some of the ingredients that the California Food Safety Act bans. These are:
Hydrogenated palm kernel oil: This is a kind of fat that is made by adding hydrogen to palm kernel oil. It is used to make Skittles smooth and last longer. Hydrogenated palm kernel oil is one of the sources of trans fats, which can make the bad cholesterol go up and the good cholesterol go down in the blood. Trans fats can also make the chance of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes higher.
Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 2 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Titanium Dioxide, Blue 1 Lake, Yellow 6, Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1: These are artificial colors that are used to make Skittles look like a rainbow. Some of these colors come from petroleum or coal tar, and some of them have been connected to allergic reactions, hyperactivity, behavioral problems, and cancer in animal studies.
These ingredients are not allowed in processed foods that are sold or made in California by 2027, according to the new law. This means that Skittles will have to change their recipe or stop selling their products in California by then. Skittles may have to use natural colors and oils instead of the banned ones or find other options that are safe and good for consumers.
Bottom Line
The rumor that Skittles are banned in California is false, but it is based on a new law that bans four chemicals from processed foods in the state. The California Food Safety Act aims to protect public health and the environment by banning these ingredients from processed foods. Skittles are not banned in California, but they will have to adapt to the new law by 2027.
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