Texas AG investigates Kellogg over artificial food dyes in cereal

Some of America's most popular breakfast cereals are under scrutiny

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into W.K. Kellogg Company

claiming the cereal giant may have violated consumer protection laws by marketing products

as healthy while using artificial dyes that could pose health risks. The company is behind

household brands like Fruit Loops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes, and Rice Krispies

In a Monday press release, Paxton's office claims some of its cereals are filled with petroleum-based artificial food colorings that have been linked to hyperactivity, obesity, autoimmune disease, endocrine-related health problems, and cancer in those who consume them

The release also noted that while Kellogg has removed these dyes from products sold in Canada and Europe, they remain in U.S. versions

In 2024, a shareholder-led protest at the company's headquarters called for the company to remove synthetic dyes from its products, citing health concerns

The artificial dyes in question include Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1, added to achieve the cereal's bright colors

But their health impacts have been widely debated. Even U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy has called on top executives from companies like Kraft Heinz and General Mills to remove artificial dyes before the end of his term

A 2022 meta-ysis published in Environmental Health found a significant association between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in children

Additionally, a 2021 review by the California Environmental Protection Agency examined 25 studies on artificial coloring, with more than half reporting a link between these dyes and behavioral issues

Straight Arrow News has reached out to W.K. Kellogg Company, but has not yet received a response

With Straight Arrow News, I'm Kennedy Felton. Download our app or visit SAN.com for more