UK health officials are urging people to stop buying certain Jolly Ranchers sweets after tests found they contain chemicals considered unsafe if eaten regularly. Some of these products are still being sold in the UK through small shops and online sellers, despite not meeting food safety rules.
The warning comes from the Food Standards Agency, which says the sweets contain Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH). These substances come from crude oil and are also found in fuels. Health experts warn that long-term exposure may increase the risk of cancer, particularly affecting the liver and lymph system.
Several Jolly Rancher products are affected, including hard candies and gummies made by The Hershey Company. Officials stress there is no immediate danger for people who have already eaten them. However, eating these sweets often or over a long period could pose a health risk. Children are considered especially vulnerable.
Consumers who have bought the affected sweets are advised not to eat them and to throw them away at home. Shops and distributors have been told to stop selling them immediately and remove all stock.
Health officials say this is part of a wider problem. Some imported US snacks and drinks continue to appear in the UK containing additives that are banned under British food safety laws.