Kix's Simple Recipe: No Artificial Colors
Original Kix cereal is famously known for its simple recipe, which emphasizes wholesome grains rather than vibrant, synthetic colors. Unlike many other breakfast cereals that feature a rainbow of colors, Kix maintains a natural, toasted corn color. A quick look at the ingredients list on a box of original Kix confirms this, as no artificial food dyes or 'colors from artificial sources' are listed. Instead, the crisp, airy puffs get their signature taste and texture from a straightforward combination of whole grain corn, corn meal, sugar, salt, and brown sugar syrup.
General Mills’ Commitment to Removing Artificials
For decades, the Kix brand has leaned into its "Kid-Tested, Parent Approved" slogan, a marketing approach that highlights its simple and trusted formula. This commitment was further solidified by General Mills' company-wide initiative, announced in 2015, to remove artificial flavors and colors from artificial sources from 75% of its cereals by 2016, with a goal of eliminating all artificial ingredients from its US cereals by 2017. This move was a direct response to growing consumer demand for more transparent and cleaner ingredient lists. Because Kix was already free of these additives, it was one of the cereals highlighted as a benchmark for this new direction.
The Ingredients That Give Kix Its Color
So what gives Kix its characteristic light-yellow color? The answer lies in its core ingredients. The whole grain corn and corn meal provide the cereal's natural hue. The processing of these corn ingredients, which involves toasting the puffs, contributes to the final color. Additionally, the formula includes a list of essential vitamins and minerals, which are added for nutritional value rather than aesthetic purposes. While other versions of Kix, such as Berry Berry Kix, do contain colors, these are derived from natural sources, such as fruit and vegetable juices, as per General Mills' reformulation commitment.
List of Common Kix Ingredients:
- Whole Grain Corn: The primary ingredient, forming the base of the crispy puffs.
- Corn Meal: Also derived from corn, adding to the texture and flavor.
- Sugar and Brown Sugar Syrup: Used for a touch of sweetness, keeping the sugar content relatively low.
- Salt: A basic seasoning.
- Baking Soda: Used in the leavening process for the puffs.
- Vitamins and Minerals: A variety of nutrients are added to fortify the cereal, including Calcium Carbonate, Iron, Zinc, Vitamin C, and various B Vitamins.
Why Artificial Dyes Are a Concern for Consumers
Consumer interest in avoiding artificial dyes stems from research linking certain synthetic colorants to potential health issues, particularly in children. Studies have explored connections between artificial food dyes and hyperactivity and neurobehavioral problems, leading to stricter regulations in some countries, like those in the European Union. This increased awareness has made ingredient transparency a priority for many parents, pushing food manufacturers to offer cleaner options.
Kix vs. Conventional Sugary Cereals
To understand the appeal of Kix's simple formula, it's helpful to compare it with other cereals that historically relied on artificial dyes for their marketing. The table below illustrates the key differences.
| Feature | Original Kix | Hypothetical Conventional Sugary Cereal |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Pale yellow, consistent toasted corn color | Bright, multi-colored, and vibrant |
| Coloring | No artificial colors | Often contains artificial dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 |
| Sugar Content | Relatively low; 4g per serving | Typically high, much sweeter profile |
| Primary Goal | Wholesome, simple, corn-based breakfast | Visually appealing, sweet, and marketed to children |
| Company Stance | "Parent Approved," focuses on simple recipe | Historically prioritized visual appeal with artificial colors |
Conclusion: A Clear Answer
For parents and consumers seeking to avoid synthetic additives, the answer to the question, "Does Kix have artificial dyes?" is a definitive no. General Mills has ensured that the original Kix cereal remains a simple, wholesome option, free from artificial colors and flavors, reflecting a broader industry shift toward cleaner ingredients. While it is always recommended to read the nutrition label on any specific Kix product, especially flavored varieties, the brand's well-established commitment to transparency provides reassurance for families. For those interested in General Mills' overall strategy regarding ingredients, their certified colors policy offers additional information General Mills Certified Colors Policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Kix cereal?
Whole Grain Corn, Corn Meal, Sugar, Salt, and Brown Sugar Syrup are the main ingredients, in addition to added vitamins and minerals like Calcium Carbonate and Iron.
Is Kix a healthy cereal option?
Kix is often considered a healthier option compared to many sugary kids' cereals. It is a good source of whole grain and calcium, and it has a relatively low sugar content. However, nutritional value can vary, so comparing it to other cereals is recommended.
Does Berry Berry Kix have artificial colors?
No, based on General Mills' commitments, flavored varieties like Berry Berry Kix use colors derived from natural sources, such as fruit and vegetable juices, instead of artificial dyes.
Does the "Kid-Tested, Parent Approved" slogan mean it's free of artificial ingredients?
The slogan highlights the cereal's simple, wholesome formula. While it doesn't explicitly guarantee the absence of all artificial ingredients across all versions and timeframes, the original recipe has long been free of artificial colors and flavors, and General Mills made a company-wide promise to eliminate them from its cereals.
What is the purpose of artificial dyes in other cereals?
Artificial dyes are typically used to make cereals more visually appealing and vibrant, especially for children. They are cheaper and have a longer shelf life than most natural food colorings.
Are there any health concerns associated with artificial food dyes?
Some studies have explored links between artificial food dyes and hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in some children. Research is ongoing, and regulations vary significantly between countries.
What company makes Kix cereal?
Kix cereal is manufactured by General Mills, a leading global food company.
