Your favorite colorful cereal might be getting more attention than usual—and not in a good way. The Texas Attorney General is taking a closer look at Kellogg, raising concerns about the synthetic dyes used in some of its popular breakfast options. While those bright colors may look fun, there’s growing worry they could come with hidden health risks, especially for kids. Now, state officials want answers.
Texas Investigates Kellogg for Alleged Misleading Claims About Artificial Dyes
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, has launched an investigation into Kellogg, accusing the breakfast cereal company of possibly violating the state’s consumer protection laws. According to NewsNation, the probe centers around concerns that several of Kellogg’s cereals—marketed as “healthy” options—may, in fact, contribute to serious health problems such as obesity, cancer, and attention disorders.
among the products named in the investigation are popular Kellogg cereals like Apple Jacks and Frosted Flakes, which contain synthetic food dyes derived from petroleum. Paxton emphasized the potential dangers of such additives in a statement announcing the investigation.
Some food additives, he stated, have been “linked to hyperactivity, obesity, autoimmune disease, endocrine-related health problems, and cancer in those who consume them.” He further warned, “There will be accountability for any company, including Kellogg, that unlawfully makes misrepresentations about its food and contributes to a broken health system that has made Americans less healthy.”
Kristina Baehr, the founder of personal injury law firm Just Well Law, voiced her support for the investigation and echoed the state’s concerns. “The state of Texas is asking, ‘Why did you promise your shareholders that you were going to take out the artificial colors and flavors, because of course you knew they were not safe, and then you reneged on that promise?’” Baehr said.
Kellogg had previously announced in 2015 that it aimed to eliminate artificial colors and flavors from its cereals by 2018. However, products such as Froot Loops and Apple Jacks continue to contain synthetic dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and Yellow 6—all petroleum-based colorants.
The case aligns with the broader “Make America Healthy Again” initiative introduced during the Trump administration. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has committed to tackling artificial dyes and additives found in processed foods, with Kellogg’s cereals—including Froot Loops—among those under scrutiny.
Are Other States Challenging Kellogg Over Artificial Food Dyes?
Texas may be the most recent state to scrutinize Kellogg for its use of synthetic food dyes, but it’s far from alone. Several other states have voiced similar concerns, raising alarms over the health implications of artificial additives in popular cereals:
- California: In September 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the School Food Safety Act, which bans six synthetic dyes—some of which are used in Kellogg’s products—from school food and beverages. The law is set to take effect on December 31st, 2027.
- Michigan: State Representative Mark Tisdel publicly criticized Kellogg for continuing to use artificial dyes and preservatives in cereals sold in the U.S., pointing out that cleaner, dye-free versions of the same products are available in select markets like Canada and multiple European countries.
- Illinois: A grassroots petition launched in October 2024 called on the Illinois State Administration to suspend sales of Kellogg products containing synthetic dyes, citing public health risks.
Are All Food Dyes and Additives Bad for Your Health?
Not necessarily. The health risks associated with food dyes and additives are still a matter of debate. While some advocacy groups warn that certain artificial dyes may be linked to conditions like hyperactivity, allergies, or long-term health concerns, others—including regulatory bodies—maintain a more neutral stance. In the United States, many of these additives, including the ones used by Kellogg, are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which deems them safe for consumption when used within established limits.
That said, growing consumer awareness and scientific scrutiny have led to increased pressure on companies to reduce or eliminate synthetic ingredients from their products. While Kellogg’s cereals continue to include dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5, the company states that its ingredients fully comply with FDA regulations. Ultimately, whether these additives pose a significant health risk depends on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and emerging research—so the conversation is far from settled.