M&M Mars
                            a division of Mars, Incorporated
                            High Street
                            Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840 
                            Telephone 908-852-1000
                            January 16, 1996


Mr. David Pleacher
John Handley High School
P.O. Box 910
Winchester, VA  22604-0910

Dear David:

Thank you for your inquiry regarding "M&M's" Chocolate Candies.

Our color blends were selected by conducting consumer preference tests,
which indicate the assortment of colors that pleased the greatest number
of people and created the most attractive overall effect.

On average, the new mix of colors for "M&M's" Plain Chocolate Candies
will contain 30% brown, 20% yellow, 20% red, 10% orange, 10% green and
10% blue. The "M&M's" Peanut Chocolate Candies ratio will be 20%
brown, 20% yellow, 20% red, 20% blue, 10% green and 10% orange.
"M&M's" Peanut Butter Chocolate Candies and "M&M's" Almond Chocolate
Candies will contain 20% each of browns, reds, yellows, greens and
blues.

All colors are certified pure food colors approved by the FDA.

Each large production batch is blended precisely to those ratios and
mixed thoroughly. However, since the individual packages are filled
weight on high-speed equipment, and not by count, it is possible
occasionally have an unusual color distribution.

Because of the difference in the sizes of the individual candies there
is a variation of pieces per package. However, the package should be the
indicated weight.

Your interest is appreciated. We hope you will continue to enjoy
M&M/MARS products and remain our valued consumer.

                            Sincerely,

       
                            Stephanie Greene
                            Consumer Affairs

SLG/bww 0508525A
Enclosures