For years, parents have avoided certain candies because of artificial dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5, which are staples in favorites like Nerds and Jolly Ranchers. But a new wave of laboratory testing in 2026 has uncovered a different concern: arsenic levels.
The 2026 Investigation
In January 2026, a state-led investigation tested 46 popular candy products and found that 28 of them contained detectable levels of arsenic. Surprisingly, some of the most popular brands were at the top of the list:
- Jolly Rancher Sour Apple: Tested as high as 540 ppb (parts per billion).
- Nerds Gummy Clusters: Tested at 500 ppb.
- Twizzlers (Watermelon & Strawberry): Both tested over 500 ppb.
To put that in perspective, the FDA limit for bottled water is just 10 ppb. While candy is eaten in smaller quantities than water, the concentration in these snacks is significantly higher than what experts consider “safe annual exposure” for children.
Where It Comes From
The arsenic in Nerds and Jolly Ranchers likely comes from the sugar and corn syrup or the water used in the manufacturing process. These crops can “suck up” minerals from the soil, and if they aren’t filtered properly during processing, those toxins end up in the final product.
Better Alternatives for Blount County Families
If you’re like me and prefer to keep artificial dyes—and heavy metals—out of the house, there are several “cleaner” brands that use organic ingredients and undergo stricter testing.
Here are our top picks for a healthier candy bowl:
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- Yum Earth Giggles: These are the perfect dye-free swap for Skittles. They are organic, vegan, and colored with real fruit and vegetable juice.
- Unreal dark chocolate gems: If you miss the crunch of M&Ms, these use colored shells made from beets and spirulina instead of Red 40 or Blue 1.
- Zollipops Clean Teeth Pops: These are sugar-free and dye-free, making them a favorite for parents who want to protect their kids’ teeth and health simultaneously.