Hot Tamales Under Fire: Is Your Favorite Candy Safe?

If you love cinnamon you've probably finished off a box or two of Hot Tamales candy.
However, the red candy is now under scrutiny not for its taste, but for the vibrant red color that makes it so appealing.

SOME BAD NEWS ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE CANDY

A new report from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) in Washington, DC, is raising serious concerns about the potential health impacts of the artificial food dyes used in the popular candy. Hot Tamales, first introduced in 1950 and a best-selling cinnamon candy as recently as 1999, is loaded with artificial dyes.

WILL WE SEE A CHANGE IN THE FUTURE?

The CSPI report alleges a strong link between these dyes and children's mental health. The center is urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban the use of these dyes, highlighting the potential risks to consumers.

WHAT KIND OF DYES ARE IN THAT CANDY?

According to the report, the candy's ingredients list includes Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2 Lake. Of particular concern is the presence of Benzidine, a known carcinogen, which can be found in Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.

IF IT'S NOT DANGEROUS AT A LOW LEVEL WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I EAT BOXES?

While health officials maintain that Benzidine is allowed at low levels considered safe, the CSPI questions the impact of regular consumption, especially when people consume boxes of the candy every week. The report highlights that artificial dyes are linked to a range of health problems beyond cancer, including allergies, asthma, ADHD, hyperactivity, and hypersensitivity. Additional risks associated with Hot Tamales, according to the CSPI, include tooth decay and the potential for increased blood sugar levels.

COULD KENNEDY JR. CHANGE THE COLOR OR BAN HOT TAMALES?

Despite the warnings, Hot Tamales remain readily available in stores across the country. However, the recent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the new United States Secretary of Health and Human Services has renewed hopes among some advocates that regulatory action may be on the horizon.
The future of Hot Tamales may depend on the regulatory changes within the FDA. If a ban on the food dyes occurs, consumers may have to adjust to a new look for their beloved cinnamon candy. "Will they become clear?" Only time will tell.