McLEAN, Va. — Mars Inc. said it would phase out the use of artificial colors in its human food products, including popular candies such as M&Ms, Snickers, Twix, 3 Musketeers and Milky Way.

Mars described the move as part of its “commitment to meet evolving consumer preferences” on synthetic dyes in foods.

“Though many of the company’s products are already free of artificial colors, by expanding the scope of the effort to its entire human food portfolio, Mars is making a commitment of significant depth and breadth,” the company said in a press release. “Products across the range of the company’s chocolate, gum, confection, food and drink businesses will be affected by the change, which will take place incrementally over the next five years.”

The artificial colors now used in in its candies and other products “pose no known health risk,” the company said, but consumers nonetheless are demanding that food makers use more natural ingredients.

Non-profit groups such as the Center for Science in the Public Interest have advocated for removal of synthetic dyes from food, which it said can set off behavioral issues such as hyperactivity and allergic reactions in children. The organization wants the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban Yellow 5, Red 40 and a half-dozen other artificial dyes from foods.

“Mars will work closely with its suppliers to find alternatives that not only meet the its strict quality and safety standards, but also maintain the vibrant, fun colors consumers have come to expect from the company’s beloved brands,” the company said.

“We’re in the business of satisfying and delighting the people who love our products,” said Grant Reid, Mars’ president and chief executive officer. “Eliminating all artificial colors from our human food portfolio is a massive undertaking, and one that will take time and hard work to accomplish. Our consumers are the boss and we hear them. If it’s the right thing to do for them, it’s the right thing to do for Mars.”

Mars said it uses a variety of naturally sourced and artificial colors in its products. “Depending on consumer preferences, ingredient availability and local regulations, slightly different formulations and products may exist in different markets,” the company said. “However, all ingredients used by the company are safe, and all are manufactured in compliance with Mars’ own strict internal quality and safety requirements and the requirements established by food safety regulators globally.”

Removing all artificial colors from a human food portfolio that features more than 50 brands represents a complex challenge, Mars said in its statement. “Mars’ strategy includes partnering with suppliers to identify new ingredients and formulas that meet its rigid safety and quality standards, addressing all legal and regulatory requirements, and creating accessible ways to gather input and feedback from consumers throughout the reformulation process. “