Why Skittles, Starburst And Life Savers Gummies Are Being Recalled
If you've got a sweet tooth, a development in the world of recalls could prove important to you. Mars Wrigley Confectionery U.S., LLC announced the recall of over a dozen varieties of gummy candies, such as Skittles Gummies, Starburst Gummies, and Life Saver Gummies, as listed by the FDA. The statement was issued on May 13, 2022, due to a potential hazard of thin metal pieces embedded inside the candies and their packages.
The company was made aware of the risk after several reports of consumers finding thin metal strips mixed in with confections. However, the candy company explains that no illnesses have since been reported. According to CBS News, it is unknown how many packages could be involved.
While CNN explains that the company is working with retailers to remove the product from shelves, customers who purchased the candies should not consume them but dispose of them immediately. Mars Wrigley encourages customers to contact the company via phone at 1-800-651-2564 or directly through the website if consumers have questions or concerns, per FDA.
Are my gummy candies affected?
According to CNN, the candy impacted by the recall was manufactured by a third party and then distributed in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Likewise, Global News explains that the gummies were sold in several sizes, varying from 57 grams to 280 grams.
The company also stressed that customers should check the first three numbers of the 10-digit manufacturing code on the package's exterior to identify whether it matches any of the recalled items listed by Mars Wrigley, as explained by the FDA.
Considered the world's leading manufacturer of sweet treats like chocolate and fruit confections, Mars Wrigley is no stranger to controversy, especially in the realm of recalls. The company has also dealt with retracting GMO products in the U.K. (via Mars).
This isn't the first food recall of the year, and it certainly won't be the last. From chocolate candy to beef, the retraction of foodstuffs is becoming increasingly common. While many consumers may point the finger at the lack of food safety regulations, Time explains that companies have issued more recalls as a precautionary method in recent years. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry.