Weather changes force Kellogg to add wheat to Rice Krispies

Kellogg's has replaced rice with rice flour in Rice Krispies, a shift that introduces wheat to the formula and eliminates the cereal's suitability for those with gluten allergies. The company cited changing weather conditions as the primary driver for the ingredient swap.

The recipe previously listed rice, sugar, salt, barley malt extract, and specific vitamins including Niacin, Iron, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12. The updated box now lists rice flour and wheat. This change marks the second recent adjustment to a flagship product, following a similar update to Coco Pops earlier this month.

Kellogg's explained the decision in a statement to Metro. A spokesperson said the company updated the recipe to use rice flour to maintain consistent quality. They noted that weather patterns were affecting the quality and availability of the rice and grains used in their products. The company added that it has always sought ways to evolve its products, whether to improve health profiles or enhance flavor.

Consumer reaction has been sharply negative. On the Morrisons website, a user named Yorkie31 gave the cereal one star. They described the texture as extruded rice and cereal paste that clumps in the mouth and lacks the traditional crackle. The reviewer called the new product rank. Another user on Ocado, Tony, reported that children are refusing the new version. He highlighted the addition of wheat to a product branded as rice-based. An anonymous reviewer on Tesco's site described the taste as terrible since the allergen update, stating the change ruined a daily family staple. Social media users on TikTok echoed these sentiments, with accounts such as @paulahldn and @glovesmoustachio describing the cereal as awful and worse than before.

Kellogg's responded to the criticism by acknowledging that small changes to beloved products can feel noticeable. The company stated it approached the update with care and consideration. Spokespeople confirmed the updated recipes were assessed for taste, appearance, and texture. They noted the company is continuing to listen to consumer feedback.

The company specified that both Rice Krispies and Coco Pops will remain non-HFSS, meaning they are not high in fat, salt, or sugar. The cereals will continue to contain no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. Nutritional benefits such as fiber, Vitamin D, and iron remain unchanged in the new formulas. Kellogg's confirmed that no other well-loved cereals in its lineup are undergoing recipe changes.

The Coco Pops update, confirmed a week prior to the Rice Krispies announcement, added rice flour and corn flour to the mix. The packaging for that product claims the cereal is now even crispier while retaining the same great chocolatey taste. Shoppers have rejected that description, with many labeling the new flavor as diabolical and disgusting.

The Rice Krispies change follows a pattern of minor ingredient adjustments that have drawn significant attention from long-time fans. The company maintains the new versions preserve the core nutritional profile while adapting to supply chain realities. The shift from whole rice to rice flour and the inclusion of wheat are now the defining features of the new product.