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Cereals are among the most popular breakfasts across the world. Not only are they easy and convenient, but cereals also boast impressive health claims. Made from processed grains and often fortified with vitamins and minerals, they are commonly eaten with milk, yogurt, fruits, and nuts. However, a food expert has revealed cereals are the most harmful breakfast cereal on the US market.

According to Dr. Darin Detwiler, who previously served as a food safety expert for the agency, Froot Loops – hugely popular with kids, are the worst among other cereals as they are highly processed and contain huge amounts of added sugars, artificial colours, and even preservatives – all of which are linked to the onset of cancers.

A one-cup serving of Froot Loops contains 12.35 grams of sugar – more than half of the recommended daily allowance for children. However, Dr. Detwiler says the serving size is not realistic, as most children eat this cereal more than the recommended single cup, as they love the taste and colours.

The bright red colour found in Froot Loops is due to Red 40 – a controversial additive linked to a slew of health problems, including mental health issues. Red dye 40 is made from petroleum and studies have linked it to hyperactivity, including ADHD.

A recently conducted study on mice, from Canada claimed the synthetic dye could also trigger irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease after observing the biomarkers of damage in the gut cells.

While it also leads to hives and asthma, sneezing, watery eyes, skin irritation and migraines – red dye 40 contains benzene - a known cancer-causing substance. Researchers have found tumour growth in animals that consumed high doses of food dyes, though it can be hard to translate what this means for kids.

Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration says the colour additives are safe for consumption when used according to its regulations and that no causal link has been established between the chemicals and behavioral effects in children.

“The totality of scientific evidence indicates that most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing colour additives, but some evidence suggests that certain children may be sensitive to them,” the FDA states.

However, last month, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the California School Food Safety Act into law - a first-of-its-kind stateside that banned six dyes found in meals, drinks, and snacks served in school cafeterias.

According to experts, you can screen the red 40 intolerance even at home. Just by cutting all foods – especially coloured cereals for a week or two, you may notice an improvement in the child’s behaviour. However, reintroducing foods and seeing their reactions can help you decipher better.

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