The Science Behind the Brands: How Mars Scientists Are Solving Real-World Challenges
When you enjoy a bag of M&M’S®, care for your pet with Royal Canin®, or feed your family Ben’s Original® rice, science might not be the first thing on your mind. But behind every beloved Mars brand is robust, purpose-led science.
To mark World Science Day, we are proud to launch our new global campaign: The Science Behind the Brands. This series takes you behind the scenes of our clinics, labs and research centers to meet the brilliant minds who are solving real-world challenges in collaboration with a global network of partners, from innovative start-ups to world-renowned academic institutions.
As Chief Science Officer Abi Stevenson shares: "For me, science has always been a team sport. Together we create real-world impact today while also sparking the discoveries that fuel tomorrow."
Watch the campaign introduction from Chief Science Officer Abi Stevenson:
Discover the Scientific Breakthroughs Shaping Our Future
1. Sustainable Packaging: Designing Materials That Never Become Waste
Traditional single-use plastics are under growing scrutiny because they are incredibly difficult to recycle at scale. At Mars, we believe that no package should outlast its purpose.
Materials Science Program Leader Eric Klingenberg and his team are redesigning our packaging from the ground up using alternative materials. By focusing on advanced plant-science barrier designs, Mars is developing packaging that protects product freshness but is easily recyclable and non-persistent in the environment, eventually returning to the earth just like a leaf.
2. Mars Snacking: Safeguarding the Future of the Peanut
Peanuts are a vital protein source for millions globally, but environmental threats are putting their future at risk. In Argentina, a devastating fungal pathogen called peanut smut infects 100% of the peanut-growing regions, threatening crop yields by up to 51%.
Research scientist Brianna Cheek is working on a breakthrough solution. Instead of relying on chemical fungicides, her team is using molecular science to identify natural genetic resistance within the peanut plant itself. This work protects farmer livelihoods, secures our supply chain, and ensures consumers can continue to safely enjoy their favorite peanut snacks.
3. Mars Food & Nutrition: Building Resilient Rice Supply Chains
Rice feeds more than half of the world's population, but climate change is making it increasingly harder to grow. Rising temperatures mean lower-yield crops are becoming more common.
Scientist Abhay Markande and his team are shifting our agricultural approach from reactive to predictive. By studying harvest and post-harvest conditions with research partners, they have demonstrated a 7% improvement in crop yield and a 14% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Their work on soil health and climate resilience ensures that rice production remains viable and safe for generations to come.
4. Pet Oral Care: Making Dental Hygiene Effortless for Pets
Dental issues affect eight out of ten dogs over the age of three, yet seven out of ten pet parents believe their dog's teeth are completely healthy. This hidden health challenge can cause significant discomfort and impact a pet's overall body wellness.
Veterinarian and scientist Thippesh Sannasiddappa is working to bridge this gap. His research focuses on developing advanced dental chews that function just like a toothbrush, using custom textures and clinically proven active ingredients to fight plaque and tartar. He is also developing AI-powered digital risk assessment tools to help pet parents spot dental concerns early at home. Through rigorous clinical
5. Waltham & Royal Canin: Supporting Our Cats as They Age
As cats age, their senses of taste and smell decline, which can cause them to lose interest in food and suffer a decline in muscle mass.
Through a powerful internal partnership, Scott McGrane from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute and Annabelle Goyon from Royal Canin studied the unique feeding preferences of senior cats. Together, they turned those insights into practical solutions, including optimized food aromas, adaptive softer kibble textures, and simple feeding recommendations like warming wet food to body temperature to stimulate appetite.
6. Mars Veterinary Health: Putting Pets First in Clinical Trials
Just like humans, pets can participate in clinical trials that are essential for advancing modern medicine.
Researcher Talon McKee focuses on designing and conducting clinical trials that put the pet first. His current work centers on identifying innovative methods to detect cancer at earlier stages and expanding the treatment options available to veterinary teams. By building a foundation of robust, evidence-based care, Talon's research is helping pets enjoy longer, happier lives with the families who love them.
Our Science is Shaping Tomorrow
Whether we are protecting crop yields, reducing packaging waste or developing life-saving veterinary diagnostics, Mars scientists are committed to delivering science with purpose. Follow along all week as we celebrate the incredible research, dedication and collaboration driving the future of our brands and our planet.
