Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a new investigation into General Mills, Inc. for allegedly misrepresenting its food products as "healthy." The company, known for cereals like Trix and Lucky Charms, is accused of marketing these products as a "good source" of vitamins and minerals despite containing petroleum-based food colorings. These colorings have been linked to various health issues such as hyperactivity disorders, endocrine dysfunction, autoimmune disease, cancer, and obesity in children.
Paxton stated, "Under my watch, big food companies should be on high alert that they will be held accountable if they put toxic ingredients in our food and engage in false marketing." He expressed his commitment to protecting public health by ensuring that corporations do not illegally market their products.
In 2015, General Mills pledged to remove artificial dyes from six of its cereals and initially followed through on this promise. However, two years later, the company resumed selling cereals with artificial dyes. Despite evidence suggesting potential harm from these ingredients, General Mills does not currently warn American consumers about the possible negative health effects of its products. The company continues to sell reformulated cereal without artificial dyes in other countries.
The investigation into General Mills is part of a broader effort by Attorney General Paxton's office to address violations of Texas consumer protection laws. This includes an ongoing investigation into Kellogg’s for similar concerns.