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Texas Attorney General Investigates Kellogg’s Over Health Claims

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into WK Kellogg Co, known commonly as Kellogg’s, concerning allegations that the company misrepresented its products as healthy. This inquiry comes in light of concerns raised about certain artificial ingredients used in Kellogg’s cereals.

Reason for Investigation

In a statement issued in early April, Paxton accused Kellogg’s of violating Texas consumer protection laws. The inquiry highlights well-known cereal products such as Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes, and Rice Krispies, which Kellogg’s claims are healthy options. The Attorney General’s office contends that these assertions are misleading, noting that these cereals still contain petroleum-based artificial dyes associated with various health risks, including hyperactivity and obesity.

Paxton emphasized the importance of protecting children’s health, stating, “A critical part of fighting for our children’s future is putting an end to companies’ deceptive practices.” He further questioned the legitimacy of promoting products containing artificial colorings as healthy alternatives.

Scientific Concerns

The Attorney General’s claims are supported by scientific research linking artificial food colorings to health issues. A noteworthy study published in the medical journal Lancet in 2007 found that artificial colors, alongside the preservative sodium benzoate, could lead to heightened hyperactivity in children.

More recent research has corroborated these concerns, with a 2022 review indicating a clear correlation between artificial coloring consumption and increased symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. Thomas Galligan of the Center for Science in the Public Interest asserted, “The evidence now shows pretty conclusively that when some kids eat these, they will experience nervous system effects that look like ADHD.”

While some artificial dyes have also been scrutinized for potential links to cancer, particularly Red Dye No. 3, which has been shown to increase cancer risk, this particular dye is not present in Kellogg’s products.

Types of Dyes Under Scrutiny

According to the investigation, the artificial dyes cited include a range of colors: blue, red, yellow, green, and orange. In 2015, Kellogg’s committed to eliminating artificial colors and flavors from its products by the end of 2018. However, Paxton’s office highlights that while formulations have been revised in other regions, U.S. products have not seen similar changes.

In a response to mounting public pressure, Kellogg’s stated that over 85% of its cereal sales now contain no artificial colors. They are continuously working on introducing new cereals that conform to cleaner ingredient standards.

Broader Context of Food Dye Regulations

Kellogg’s situation reflects a growing trend of regulatory scrutiny regarding artificial dyes in the food supply across the United States. Earlier this year, the FDA announced a ban on Red Dye No. 3 in food and beverages, requiring its removal by 2027. This action was grounded in the Delaney Clause, which prohibits the use of additives known to be carcinogenic.

Several states, including California and West Virginia, have enacted their own bans on specific artificial dyes and additives. West Virginia’s recent legislation will phase out certain dyes from food provided in schools, highlighting a nationwide movement toward safer food regulations.

Consumers interested in tracking legislative changes regarding food additives can reference tools such as the Environmental Working Group’s interactive map, which monitors ongoing state-level initiatives.

Kellogg’s has been approached for further comment regarding this investigation, and updates will follow pending their response.

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