Kellogg's recall - update

Kellogg's recent voluntary recall of certain cereals gained some media attention, but the biggest criticism leveled against them concerned the fact that they didn't immediately disclose the ingredient that was causing the unusual flavor and odor. Since then it has been revealed that the culprits are hydrocarbons, specifically hydrocarbon methylnaphthalene, whose safety is yet to be firmly established.

As with all public relations matters the question is whether Kellogg handled this in the best manner. Discerning consumers are demanding more accurate information upfront. And, if because of the nature of this ingredient the perception could grow that many processed breakfast cereals are far from being has healthful as they should be.  This could also influence public regulators to get involved.

It will be interesting to see if this recall and the fallout from it affects their bottom line.

(Source: New York Times)

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Kellogg's recall

Consumer recalls are never a good thing for a company. Of course, how the recall is handled is critical for whether this turns into a public relations disaster. Nevertheless, it does leave a certain stain on their reputation. Kellogg recently issued a voluntary recall of select packages of Corn Pops, Honey Smacks, Froot Loops and Apple Jacks cereals, around 28 million boxes! The issue is an unusual smell and flavor that comes from the packages' liners. But, according to Kellogg, there is no real health danger as the ingredient (which they don't name) is a common ingredient in the waxy resins on the liner. The ingredient is FDA approved, but in quantities higher than normal.

So far this has not turned into anything like the recent problems at Toyota, and if Kellogg continues to handle this in an honest, upfront manner it will easily blow over. I think their reputation would be harmed more if the recalled cereals were some of their more health-oriented brands.

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Malt-O-Meal recall

I've been away and haven't blogged here for a couple of weeks. But, now that I'm back...
Here's something you don't normally associate with breakfast cereal: A product recall.

Discount and private-label cereal manufacturer, Malt-O-Meal, announced that is voluntarily recalling certain lots of its unsweetened Puffed Rice and Puffed Wheat cereals because of the possibility of Salmonella contamination. This recall affects its own brand and those under the labels of Acme, America's Choice, Food Club, Giant, Hannaford, Jewel, Laura Lynn, Pathmark, Shaw's, ShopRite, Tops and Weis Quality.

Detailed information is available on the company's website.

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Golden Grahams recall

It's not too often that you hear about cereal being recalled. One of my favorites, Golden Grahams, has been recalled in the U.S. by General Mills because some lots contain milk, which is not listed on the label. This only applies to 13oz boxes with certain date codes.

For more information visit General Mills.

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