UK warns over sweets linked to cancer risk and DNA damage

Several Jolly Rancher sweets have been deemed “unsafe to eat” due to ingredients that may damage DNA and increase cancer risk, according to a warning issued by the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA).

The affected products include Hard Candy, ‘Misfits’ Gummies, Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1 and Berry Gummies. The FSA has urged consumers and retailers to stop buying and selling these US-made sweets manufactured by The Hershey Company. These products contain chemical compounds known as mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH), which are not permitted under UK food safety laws.

While the FSA states there is “no immediate cause for concern, as [the] food safety risk is low,” they caution that regular consumption over time could pose a health risk.

In a food alert issued on Wednesday evening, the FSA warned: “MOAH can cause damage to DNA and has the potential to increase the risk of cancer, particularly if consumed in high quantities over a prolonged period of time. MOAH is a genotoxic carcinogen, therefore no exposure is without risk to human health.”

MOAH and MOSH are commonly used in confectionery to reduce stickiness and enhance the shiny appearance of sweets.

The Hershey Company has been working to remove the affected products from the market. However, some UK businesses have continued to sell them.