What's in M&M's

Molecules in it 5

• LactoseC12H22O11

  Listed on Wikidata as a material it is made from from source

  Milk sugar, glucose joined to galactose. Most adults worldwide stop making the enzyme that splits it, which is what lactose intolerance is.

• Sodium chlorideClNa

  Listed on Wikidata as a material it is made from from source

  Table salt. Sodium and chloride ions in a cubic lattice, and the only rock people eat on purpose.

  As a pure substance: LD50 3,000 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source

• CurcuminC21H20O6

  Listed on Wikidata as a material it is made from from source

  The yellow of turmeric, and the pigment that stains a wooden spoon. It is also a traditional dye and a pH indicator that turns red in alkali.

  As a pure substance, its GHS hazard label: signal word Warning; Irritant from source

• CarmineC22H20O13

  Listed on Wikidata as a material it is made from from source

  The deep red food dye made from crushed cochineal insects. It colors yogurt, lipstick, and Campari, and it is why some products are not vegan.

• Brilliant blue FCFC37H34N2Na2O9S3

  Listed on Wikidata as a material it is made from from source

  Blue 1, the blue in sports drinks and blue raspberry candy. Very little is absorbed, so a large amount tints the stool blue-green.

  As a pure substance: LD50 2,000 mg/kg (rat, oral) from source