Bright banners and passionate voices filled the air outside the WK Kellogg Co. headquarters in Michigan. Dozens of individuals joined forces, demanding that the company eliminate artificial dyes from its American breakfast cereals. Here’s what unfolded:
- Kellogg pledged nearly ten years ago to remove artificial colors and ingredients from its products by 2018.
- While this commitment has been upheld in other countries like Canada, where Froot Loops boast natural hues from carrot, watermelon, and blueberry juices, the U.S. counterpart still contains artificial colors and BHT, a chemical preservative.
- Activists, armed with petitions carrying over 400,000 signatures, urged WK Kellogg to ditch artificial dyes and BHT. They cited research indicating a link between synthetic colorants and behavioral issues in children.
- Food activist Vani Hari lent her voice to the cause, championing mothers who strive to offer their children wholesome meals free from added chemicals. Her previous efforts spearheaded Kraft Heinz’s removal of artificial dyes from macaroni and cheese.
- Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s assertion that most children experience no adverse effects from color additives, the call for change remains strong.
- Kellogg’s spin-off of its snack division into Kellanova last year saw the new company retaining the international cereal business, continuing to produce natural-dye Froot Loops for markets like Australia and the United Kingdom.
- WK Kellogg stood firm, reassuring consumers that its products are compliant with federal regulations and safe for consumption. It emphasized that over 85% of its cereal sales already exclude artificial colors.
- The company acknowledged varying consumer preferences across different markets, highlighting the Canadian market’s more favorable reception to natural-color alternatives in cereals.
- With California’s recent ban on six food dyes, including those present in Froot Loops, Kellogg may be prompted to reassess its stance on artificial ingredients in the face of evolving regulations.
In conclusion, the rallying cries outside the WK Kellogg Co. headquarters underscore a growing demand for transparency and natural alternatives in food production. As consumers become more conscious of what goes into their bodies, companies like Kellogg are urged to prioritize health and wellness in their product offerings. The call for change rings loud and clear – will Kellogg heed it?
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