FSA urges removal of several Jolly Rancher products containing potentially harmful mineral oils that may pose long-term health risks
A warning has been issued by the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) over several imported Jolly Rancher sweets, stating that these products are “unsafe to eat” due to the presence of chemical substances that may pose long-term health risks, including DNA damage and an elevated cancer risk.
The alert concerns several varieties of Jolly Rancher sweets, manufactured by The Hershey Company, a major US-based confectionery brand. According to the FSA, the affected sweets contain mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) — compounds not permitted under current UK food safety regulations.
Jolly Rancher sweets fail to comply with UK food laws
The chemicals identified by the FSA are typically used in food production to give products a smooth texture and glossy appearance. However, MOAH is classified as a genotoxic carcinogen, meaning it can damage DNA and potentially lead to cancer when consumed in significant amounts over time. MOSH, while considered less hazardous, is also subject to regulation due to possible accumulation in body tissues.
Despite a low immediate health risk, the FSA advises consumers to stop eating the affected sweets and dispose of them at home. Continued exposure through regular consumption could lead to health issues in the long term, especially in vulnerable individuals, such as children or those with existing health conditions.
Products under warning and consumer guidance
The affected products include:
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy
- Jolly Rancher ‘Misfits’ Gummies
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1
- Jolly Rancher Berry Gummies
The FSA is instructing both businesses and consumers to cease the sale and distribution of these items. It has also advised local Trading Standards and environmental health authorities to ensure that any remaining stock is swiftly removed from shelves across the UK.
Consumers who believe they have purchased one of these sweets are encouraged to report the product to their local authority’s public health office.
Hershey responds to concerns
In response to the alert, a Hershey Company spokesperson stated that the safety and quality of their products remain a top priority, though they acknowledged that meeting international compliance standards can be challenging when producing goods primarily for the US market.
“Consumers should ensure they purchase Hershey products from established and regulated retailers to guarantee product integrity,” the company said.
Hershey emphasized its ongoing cooperation with the FSA and confirmed efforts had already been underway since 2024 to voluntarily remove non-compliant Jolly Rancher items from the UK market. However, unauthorized imports have allowed some of the sweets to continue circulating despite these efforts.
Looking ahead: stronger regulation and public awareness
The FSA has reiterated its commitment to enforcing stronger import controls and improving public awareness of food safety risks tied to non-compliant international products. The agency is working with enforcement authorities to contact distributors and retailers who may have received the sweets and ensure they are withdrawn.
For more updates on food safety, visit our UK health alerts page.
