Mars Supports Limited Sugar Intake Labeling Recommendations

HACKESTTOWN, NJ -- The maker of M&M's, Snickers and Skittles said it is supporting the World Health Organization and U.S. Department of Agriculture's recommendation that people limit their sugar intakes to less than 10% of their daily calories. Additionally, Mars Inc. said it supports of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration'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 issued the statement as part a public comment period following a 2015 report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.

The candymaker 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." Mars also said it would commit to making more confections that have fewer than 200 calories.

Mars also asked that the committee identify "oral health as a public health priority" and recommend chewing sugar-free gum to reduce cavities. Mars owns Wrigley, which produces Orbit, Extra and Eclipse, among other chewing gum brands.