Kellogg’s, K, becomes first company to sign legally binding agreement removing toxic dyes from cereals

WK Kellogg Co. has made history as the first major food manufacturer to enter into a legally binding commitment to eliminate artificial food dyes from its cereal products, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Wednesday. The landmark agreement marks a significant step in the growing push to remove synthetic additives from the American food supply, particularly those consumed by children.

According to the Attorney General’s office, the agreement is the result of an extensive, months-long investigation into Kellogg’s use of artificial coloring agents in its breakfast cereals. Under the terms of an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance, Kellogg’s must completely remove all artificial dyes from its cereal lineup no later than the end of 2027. While other companies in the industry have made public statements or informal promises to reduce or eliminate these additives, Kellogg’s stands out as the first to formalize its commitment in a legally enforceable contract.

Paxton said the decision sends a clear message to the food industry that consumers deserve healthier products and greater transparency in labeling. “Following months of investigating and negotiating, I’m proud to officially say Kellogg’s will stop putting these unhealthy ingredients in its cereals,” he said. “This is a win for families across Texas and the country. I encourage other food manufacturers to sign similar agreements to demonstrate their commitment to helping Americans live healthier lives.”

Consumer advocacy groups have long warned about the potential risks of artificial food dyes, which have been linked in some studies to behavioral issues in children and other health concerns. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has deemed certain dyes safe for consumption within regulated limits, growing public scrutiny and demand for cleaner ingredient lists have pushed many brands to reformulate their products. The Kellogg’s agreement represents one of the strongest examples yet of regulatory and corporate cooperation to address these concerns.

Industry analysts note that while some rival brands have quietly phased out artificial colors or replaced them with plant-based alternatives, the absence of binding agreements has left room for companies to reverse course. By signing a formal, enforceable contract, Kellogg’s not only commits to the change but also sets a precedent that could pressure competitors to follow suit. This move may also influence the broader packaged food sector to adopt similar binding timelines for ingredient reformulation.

If Kellogg’s meets its 2027 deadline, the change will affect some of its most iconic cereal brands — potentially altering products that have looked and tasted the same for decades. For a company whose brands are woven into American breakfast culture, the shift marks both a symbolic and practical change toward aligning with evolving consumer expectations for health, wellness, and transparency.