Kellogg's replaces rice with wheat in UK Rice Krispies and Coco Pops citing weather impacts

Kellogg's said it has removed whole rice grains from the UK versions of Rice Krispies and Coco Pops, substituting wheat gluten after dry weather across key Asian growing regions lowered rice harvests and raised prices. The company said the change was needed to keep product quality consistent.

"This recent change helps us maintain consistent quality at a time when changing weather conditions are affecting the quality and availability of some of the rice and grains used in our cereals," a Kellogg's spokesperson said.

The firm added that the new formulations were "carefully assessed for taste, appearance and texture" and that it continues to monitor consumer feedback. The ingredient swap means the cereals now contain wheat gluten, making them unsuitable for people with coeliac disease or wheat allergies. The packaging now includes a bold wheat allergen declaration, replacing the previous "may contain gluten" precautionary note.

Kellogg's emphasized that the cereals still meet UK standards for fat, salt and sugar and that fibre, vitamin D and iron levels remain unchanged. Neither product contains artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. In contrast, Kellogg's North American operation confirmed that Rice Krispies sold in the United States and Canada will continue to be made with real rice.

The reformulation comes as UK sales of Rice Krispies have been declining, according to trade data, while the company’s US division plans to remove artificial dyes from all its cereals by the end of 2027.