Kellogg’s faces scrutiny from Texas officials over failure to remove controversial food colorings from U.S. products while making healthier changes abroad

Austin, Texas – In a move that underscores the commitment to consumer protection, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into the marketing practices of cereal giant WK Kellogg Co. (Kellogg’s). The scrutiny comes amid allegations that Kellogg’s has misled consumers by labeling its products as “healthy” despite containing harmful artificial food colorings.

Kellogg’s, known for its popular cereals such as Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes, and Rice Krispies, has come under fire for its use of petroleum-based artificial dyes linked to a variety of health issues, including hyperactivity, obesity, autoimmune diseases, endocrine-related problems, and even cancer. The controversy escalated when it was revealed that although Kellogg’s had pledged to remove these artificial colorings and the preservative BHT from its products, the changes were implemented only in Canada and Europe, not in the United States.

Attorney General Paxton expressed strong concerns about the implications of such marketing strategies, especially on the health of children.

“A critical part of fighting for our children’s future is putting an end to companies’ deceptive practices that are aimed at misleading parents and families about the health of food products,” Paxton stated.

He emphasized the severe impacts these artificial colorings could have on health and firmly asserted that foods containing such dyes should not be advertised as healthy.

The investigation aims to assess whether Kellogg’s actions constitute a breach of Texas consumer protection laws. This probe is part of a broader effort to ensure that companies are held accountable for truthfully representing their products, particularly when it concerns the well-being of consumers.

This development signals a significant stance on health and consumer rights, stressing that transparency in food labeling and advertising is crucial. As the investigation continues, it could lead to major changes in how food companies market their products, particularly those targeted at children. The outcome could potentially set a precedent for how ingredients and health claims are managed in the food industry, not just in Texas but nationwide.