General Mills Is Reintroducing Trix with Artificial Colors and Flavors

Progress for the sake of progress has proven to be too much for General Mills, the brand behind popular cereals like Cherrios, Chex, Cocoa Puffs, and Lucky Charms. After two years of testing out a new formula for its Trix cereal, and a barrage of complaints from diehard fans of the original, the company announced that it would once again use artificial dyes and flavors.

If your little one happens to love Trix, you’ll be happy to hear that General Mills is planning to also keep its cleaner, artificial-free version of the cereal on shelves as well.

Vocal fans expressed that the cereal’s new alternative mix couldn’t deliver the vibrant colors of original Trix – or the taste profile that the artificial flavors bring to the cereal.

General Mills attempted to market Trix in a more wholesome light in 2016 after using ingredients like turmeric, strawberries and radishes as dye as opposed to artificial options. But Trix consumers noticed the change immediately, and even though some parents felt better about serving the new cereal at the breakfast table, it was enough to cause General Mills to take a second look.

Trix is a special departure brand for the company; General Mills told The Wall Street Journal that 90 percent of their iconic cereal offerings do not include artificial coloring or chemical-induced flavoring.

While the company hasn’t announced how the two Trix formulas will be distinguishable from one another in the grocery aisle, those looking for the cleanest varieties of cereal might be better off sticking with Cheerios or Chex for now.