7 chapters across the catalog
A retrospective on General Mills' attempt to remove artificial dyes from Trix cereal reveals that consumers rejected the "boring" natural colors, forcing the company to revert to synthetic dyes. The discussion covers how brands like Kraft and Mars use different ingredients in Europe versus the U.S. due to regulation and consumer perception. The hosts recall historical marketing tactics, such as putting towels or toys inside product packaging.
A producer provides insight into the use of chlormequat, a chemical recently detected in General Mills and Quaker Oats products. Farmers use the substance as a growth inhibitor to strengthen plant stems and prevent cereal crops from "lodging" or falling over under the weight of heavy seed heads. The practice is intended to maximize yield and ease harvesting despite potential health concerns for consumers.
The FDA is investigating reports of over 400 people becoming ill after consuming Lucky Charms cereal. The hosts contrast the agency's rapid response to cereal complaints with its perceived lack of interest in investigating reports of vaccine-related adverse events.
Major food companies like General Mills and Kraft Heinz are planning significant price increases for wholesalers in early 2022. Meanwhile, Jelena McWilliams resigned as Chairman of the FDIC following what some describe as a "hostile takeover" by partisan board members. These shifts in financial and regulatory leadership are occurring as economists predict 10-20% price increases for consumer goods.
Good Morning America features a report on a controversial college golfer who pours milk into his bowl before adding cereal. A survey conducted by the show reveals that 23% of the public follows this breakfast method. The segment is critiqued as a potential native advertisement for General Mills brands like Cheerios.
John C. Dvorak reviews Blueberry Cheerios purchased at a Grocery Outlet, noting an intense scent and flavor. The discussion covers the product's status as a market research experiment and a rumor from the "troll room" regarding the cereal causing green stool in children.
General Richard Mills, Social Media Weapons in Afghanistan
Major General Richard P. Mills discussed the convergence of physical resistance and "social media weapons" during a speech on cyber warfare. Mills detailed his experience in Afghanistan, where he utilized cyber operations to infect enemy command and control networks. He noted that modern adversaries have replaced crude communication methods, like burning tires, with focused digital tools like Facebook and Twitter.
