Sweets from US Company Could Damage DNA and Increase Cancer Risk, UK Agency Warns
A popular range of American sweets, Jolly Ranchers, has come under scrutiny in the UK after the Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned that several of its products contain chemical substances that could damage DNA and potentially raise cancer risk over time.
The FSA issued a formal alert on Wednesday evening, advising consumers and businesses in the UK to stop purchasing, selling, or consuming the sweets, which are manufactured by US confectionery giant, Hershey.
According to the agency, the affected products contain two types of mineral oil compounds – mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) – which are banned under UK food safety regulations. MOAH, in particular, is classified as a genotoxic carcinogen, meaning it can damage genetic material and increase cancer risk if consumed regularly over an extended period.
“MOAH can cause damage to DNA and has the potential to increase the risk of cancer,” the agency stated. “There is no safe level of exposure to genotoxic carcinogens.”
While the FSA emphasized there is no immediate threat to health from occasional consumption, it cautioned against the continued sale and distribution of the products due to the risks associated with long-term exposure.
The affected items include:
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy
- Jolly Rancher ‘Misfits’ Gummies
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1
- Jolly Ranchers Berry Gummies
The FSA said it had been working with The Hershey Company since early 2024 to remove the non-compliant products from the UK market. However, some retailers have continued to import and sell them, prompting the agency to now call for enforcement authorities to take immediate action.
Consumers in possession of the listed products are advised to dispose of them and report any concerns to local Trading Standards or environmental health departments.
In response, a Hershey spokesperson said the safety of Jolly Rancher products remains a top priority. “Consumers can rest assured that our products are safe to enjoy,” they said, while acknowledging that items manufactured in the US may not always align with international regulatory standards. The company also advised customers to purchase its products from reputable retailers to ensure compliance.
The warning underscores growing concerns over food imports and ingredient regulations, particularly when products cross into markets with stricter safety standards.
