You know the scene. You're at the supermarket, eyes wandering over shelves stacked with sweet temptations.
But it’s precisely that kind of candy that is now causing health officials and researchers across several countries to raise red flags. And not because of its sugar content—but because of something far more invisible.
UK Health Alert: Chemicals Found in Popular Candy Bags
In the United Kingdom, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a stark warning against selected products from the American candy brand Jolly Rancher.
According to authorities, certain varieties contain two types of mineral oils—known as MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons) and MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons)—that are not permitted in foods sold within the European Union.
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These oils may sound harmless. But studies conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and Germany's Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) suggest that MOAH can have mutagenic and potentially carcinogenic properties, due to its ability to interfere with the DNA structure in human cells.
Meanwhile, MOSH tends to accumulate in body fat, where it is suspected of triggering chronic inflammation over time.
This means that while one piece of candy may not knock you out, repeated exposure over time could lead to effects far beyond a sugar crash.
These Varieties Should Be Thrown Out Immediately
The official UK warning highlights several specific candy products suspected of containing the harmful mineral oils. These include:
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- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy
- Jolly Rancher “Misfits” Gummies
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1
- Jolly Rancher Berry Gummies
These products have been withdrawn in the UK and several EU markets, yet they continue to circulate, particularly through online sellers and specialty shops that import American goods.
Hershey, the company behind Jolly Rancher, has been cooperating with authorities to identify and halt distribution—but unofficial sales channels remain hard to control.
The Hidden Risk: Why Labels Matter
At a time when many consumers prioritize organic, sustainable, and natural ingredients, it’s remarkable how rarely we examine the fine print on candy packaging. And even less often do we understand what’s written.
The continued appearance of potentially hazardous ingredients on store shelves—and ultimately in our stomachs—is not only a matter of regulatory gaps, but also of consumer habits.
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A 2023 study from the University of Reading found that fewer than 15% of consumers read ingredient lists on candy and snacks, unless they have allergies or specific dietary needs.
But when there’s a risk that your sweet treat may contain substances scientists are warning against due to long-term health consequences, maybe it’s time to rethink those habits.
Article is based on information from Nyheder24
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