Texas Investigates Kellogg Over Food Dye Use Amid Health Concerns

Texas Launches Investigation into Kellogg's Food Dye Usage

The state of Texas is initiating an investigation into Kellogg's use of artificial food dyes in its cereals, alleging potential violations of consumer protection laws. Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton stated that many of Kellogg's cereals, marketed as 'healthy', may significantly contribute to obesity, cancer, and attention difficulties.

Health Risks Linked to Artificial Food Colorings

• Products like Apple Jacks and Frosted Flakes contain petroleum-based colorings.
• Paxton claims these additives are linked to hyperactivity, obesity, autoimmune diseases, and endocrine-related health problems.

In his statement, Paxton emphasized that there would be accountability for any company, including Kellogg, that misrepresents its food products. Kristina Baehr of Just Well Law expressed similar concerns, questioning why Kellogg promised to remove artificial colors and, according to allegations, failed to do so.

Broader Implications and National Attention

This investigation aligns with the Trump administration's Make America Healthy Again initiative, which seeks to address unsafe food dyes in processed foods. Texas follows California's lead, which has already banned Kellogg's Froot Loops in schools over similar concerns.

Despite promises made by Kellogg to eliminate artificial flavors and colors from their cereals by 2018, products such as Froot Loops and Apple Jacks still contain dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, derived from petroleum.

Public Opinions on Food Dyes

Opinions on the safety of artificial food dyes remain mixed. While some advocacy groups warn of potential health risks, many of these ingredients have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).