Mars Inc., which most famously makes M&Ms and also produces Snickers, Skittles and other sweet treats, has become an unlikely advocate for eating less sugar.
The candy company said in a statement Friday that it supports the World Health Organization and USDA's recommendation that people limit their sugar intake to less than 10 percent of their daily calories, and the FDA's 2014 proposal for food manufacturers to amend nutrition labels to include added sugars.
"One of the most important ways we can help is by giving consumers clear information about what’s in the products we manufacture so they can make informed dietary choices," Mars said in the statement.
Mars Inc. issued the statement Thursday as part a public comment period following a 2015 report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC). The company — which also produces Starburst, Twix and 3 Musketeers — said it "is committed to doing its part to help consumers maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle through product reformulation, reduced portion sizes, responsible marketing, and consumer information."
The company said in the letter that they would commit to making more treats that are under 200 calories.
In the letter, Mars also asked that the committee identify "oral health as a public health priority" and recommend chewing sugar-free gum to reduce cavities. Mars Inc. owns Wrigley, which produces a number of gum brands, including Orbit, Extra and Eclipse.
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— Elisha Fieldstadt