U.S. confectionery giant Mars Inc. is expected to secure unconditional approval from the European Union for its planned $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova, the snacks company spun off from Kellogg, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The European Commission, which oversees antitrust regulation in the bloc, is set to give its formal approval in the coming weeks, clearing the way for one of the largest food industry deals in recent years.

The merger, announced earlier this year, will bring together Mars’ extensive portfolio—which includes brands like M&M’s, Snickers, and Pedigree—with Kellanova’s global snack offerings such as Pringles, Cheez-It, and Pop-Tarts. Sources said the deal was unlikely to raise competition concerns, as the companies’ operations overlap minimally in the European market, particularly within the packaged snacks and pet food sectors.

Mars has argued that the acquisition will strengthen its international presence and diversify its product base beyond confectionery and pet care.

The company said the move aligns with its long-term growth strategy and reflects its ambition to expand further into the fast-growing global snacks market, projected to reach over $1 trillion by 2030.

EU regulators reportedly found no evidence that the merger would harm consumers or limit market access for competitors, leading to the decision to approve the deal without requiring divestments or behavioral remedies.

The review process had been closely watched by analysts, given recent scrutiny of large cross-border mergers in the consumer goods industry.

Once finalized, the acquisition will mark Mars’ biggest-ever purchase and one of the largest in the global food and beverage sector this decade.

Industry observers say the combined company could rival other major players like Mondelez and Nestlé, reshaping the competitive landscape of the global snacks market.

Source: Reuters.