Mars asks McDonald's to stop using M&Ms

The world’s biggest candy company is so concerned about sugar, it’s asking the world’s biggest hamburger chain to consider going a bit easier on the desserts.

Virginia-based Mars is said to be in discussions with McDonald’s about the possibility of ending the use of M&Ms as a topping on the takeaway chain’s soft serve.

It comes as part of Mars’ efforts to reduce the sugar people consume from their products, which it kicked off last year as it told consumers to keep their sugar consumption to 10% or less of their daily energy intake.

Earlier this year, it revealed it would begin including a warning on its Dolmio-branded pasta sauces, among other products, that they are not suitable for everyday consumption.

“This commitment applies to all Mars-branded products,” said Mars spokesman Jonathan Mudd.

“We are now working alongside our suppliers and customers to bring this commitment to life.”

Nestle has also joined Mars in their unlikely battle against sugar in recent months.

Both companies broke rank with the powerful Grocery Manufacturers Association in the US to support the inclusion of added sugars on the country’s federally-mandated nutrition information panel.