How Does an Ingredient from Sudan’s War Zones End Up in Global Brands Like Coca-Cola and M&M’s?

Gum arabic, a main ingredient for Coca Cola and M&M’s mainly comes from Sudan which produces about 80% of the world’s supply of this natural resin from acacia trees used to thicken and stabilize many products such as food, cosmetics and medicine. 

Starting in April 2023, the RSF has seized control of major gum producing regions of Sudan during its war with the national army which has led traders to pay fees to the RSF for marketing their gum with some illegally transiting to Chad, Senegal, Egypt and South Sudan. 

Most of those supplies are untraceable as a consequence of their missing certification. Meanwhile, big names like Nexira and Ingredion are seeking gum from other countries although the underground trade continues. 

Some producers in Sudan even reported having their stolen gum sold online. This gum smuggling raises serious ethical issues for global brands as the money can indirectly finance the Sudan conflict. 

Companies must set policies that will prevent their supply chains from financing conflict in Sudan. Otherwise without better regulation and international efforts, the trade in this vital ingredient might continue to fuel the conflict in the region. 

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