Mars May Kill the M&M McFlurry Forever: Report

McLEAN, Va. — Is McDonald's M&M McFlurry about to go extinct?

McLean-based Mars Inc., maker of M&M candies, is thinking of pulling the treat from McFlurries and Dairy Queen's Blizzards.

Why? Mars thinks the addition of M&Ms is making the McFlurry way too sugary, pumping consumers with more sugar in one sitting than they should get in a day, according to an NBC News report quoting an industry source.

Mars is reportedly concerned that partnering with McDonald's on the McFlurry conflicts with the image the brand is trying to represent: as a socially responsible company pushing for moderation of sweets consumption. As the obesity and diabetes problem reaches epidemic levels worldwide, companies like Mars are in the increasingly difficult position of trying to sell their sugary products while also presenting themselves as part of the solution.

As a result, Mars is thinking of eliminating M&Ms from the treat, among other ideas the company is considering, according to the report. Mars, McDonald's and other partners are also reportedly looking at recipe reformulations.

M&Ms are featured in a multitude of fast-food deserts, including the McFlurry, Blizzard and Burger King's Snickers pie.

Mars has promised publicly that it will attempt to limit sugar in its products to line up with health guidelines established by the World Health Organization and other entities.

In comments to Reuters, a Mars spokesman wouldn't address the report. But he noted the company's effort to limit sugar. "We are now working alongside our suppliers and customers to bring this commitment to life," he said.

Image via McDonald's