General Mills Removes Synthetic Dyes From US Cereals

General Mills has completed a company-wide transition to removing synthetic dyes from its U.S. cereals, replacing artificial colors with natural sources such as turmeric and paprika while preserving familiar appearances. The move follows past trials, including a failed 2016 attempt to remove dyes from Trix due to consumer backlash, and builds on earlier steps like removing dyes from cereals sold in K-12 schools. The change reflects ongoing pressure from health officials and a broader industry shift toward natural ingredients, with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advocating phasing out petroleum-based dyes nationwide. General Mills estimates about 90% of its U.S. retail portfolio has moved away from certified colors, and the company anticipates completing the transition for related products by the end of 2027. Industry peers, including Kellogg, Campbell Soup Company, and Nestle, have signaled or pledged similar moves to remove artificial dyes, signaling a broader reformulation trend in the cereal and snack sectors. Public reaction has been mixed, with some consumers praising the change for health reasons and others lamenting potential changes to the visual appeal of familiar cereals.