Starburst ingredients: what's banned overseas?
Parent company: Mars Inc.
About Starburst
Starburst are fruit-flavored soft chew candies produced by Mars Inc., sold in the US since 1967. They are one of the best-selling non-chocolate candies in the US. Starburst candies contain gelatin in the US version, making them non-vegan, while the UK version is vegetarian. Mars has announced dye-removal commitments for its candy portfolio.
Common concerns with Starburst products
US Starburst contain Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1 — petroleum-derived dyes requiring warning labels in the EU and UK. The UK Starburst formula notably uses no artificial colors or flavors. The US formula also uses hydrogenated palm kernel oil and gelatin. Mars announced in 2025 plans to transition to natural, plant-based colors across its candy brands. Starburst is a direct example of US vs. UK ingredient divergence.
Starburst products we've analyzed
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