Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Total Sources: 60
Verified Claims: 37
Scientific Sources: 22
Starburst is a brand of fruit-flavored, chewy candy manufactured by the Wrigley Company, a subsidiary of Mars, Incorporated [31]. Introduced in the United Kingdom in 1959 under the name Opal Fruits, it gained popularity for its unexplainably juicy flavor [31], [33].
Introduced in the United Kingdom as Opal Fruits [31]
Introduced in the United States as M&M's Fruit Chewies [31]
Renamed Starburst in the United States [31]
Opal Fruits name phased out in the UK and Ireland [31]
Mars acquires Wrigley and transfers non-chocolate candy brands, including Starburst, to the Wrigley subsidiary [31]
Mars Company decided to remove artificial flavoring and colors [33]
Class 2 Device Recall Starburst Talon SemiFlex Electrosurgical Device [17]
Starburst, Skittles, and Life Savers Gummies Recalled [43]
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration announced a bold national initiative to phase out petroleum-based food dyes (certified color additives) from the American food supply [20]
Some studies suggest that artificial food colorings may be linked to hyperactivity in children [48].
High sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health problems [7], [28], [29], [30].
Certain ingredients found in some imported sweets, including those similar to Starburst, are banned in the UK due to potential health risks [37].
A Scoping Review of Observational Studies on Food and Beverage Advertising on Social Media: A Public Health Perspective
Popular social media platforms have been actively used by ultra-processed food companies to promote their products. Being exposed to this type of advertising increases the consumption of unhealthy foods and the risk of developing obesity and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) [5].
Breaking the Link Between Negative Emotion and ...
Stressful experiences frequently lead to increased consumption of unhealthy foods, high in sugar and fat yet low in nutrients [7].
Considerations for deriving a safe intake of propylene glycol
The use of propylene glycol (PG) in food and other applications is widespread, and some estimates of dietary exposure to PG approach or exceed the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 25 mg/kg bw-day [11].
Meta-Analysis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms, Restriction Diet, and Synthetic Food Color Additives
A meta-analysis found that restriction diets reduced ADHD symptoms and that an estimated 8% of children with ADHD may have symptoms related to synthetic food colors [53], [54].
Fresh Fruit
Provides natural sweetness and essential nutrients without added sugars or artificial colors [52].
Where to find: Local grocery stores and farmers' markets
Homemade Fruit Snacks
Allows control over ingredients, avoiding artificial colors and excessive sugar [51].
Dark Chocolate
Offers a sweet treat with potential health benefits from antioxidants, but should be consumed in moderation due to heavy metal contamination [44], [45], [46].
Where to find: Grocery stores, specialty food stores