Cereal colossus Kellogg’s is taking action to make sure you don’t associate their part of a balanced breakfast with casual racism. Consider this a teachable moment on keeping an eye on your product’s packaging.
Throne of the Crescent Moon writer Saladin Ahmed took to Twitter when he noticed an unsettling about the cartoon Pops featured on a current Corn Pops box. See if you can spot an uncomfortable trend with the Pops displayed.
https://twitter.com/saladinahmed/status/922840667277135872
“hey @KelloggsUS why is literally the only brown corn pop on the whole cereal box the janitor?” asked Ahmed. “this is teaching kids racism.”
Before you send your “POLITICAL CORRECTNESS GONE MAD” manifesto to our offices, it really is absurd that the only visible brown Pop is on the custodial staff. WHO IS THAT FOR? WHO? Also, Kellogg’s agrees with Ahmed’s take. They quickly apologized for the tone-deaf art.
Kellogg is committed to diversity & inclusion. We did not intend to offend – we apologize. The artwork is updated & will be in stores soon.
— Kellogg's (@KelloggsUS) October 24, 2017
https://twitter.com/saladinahmed/status/922930010058575873
In a statement provided to USA Today, spokesperson Kris Charles stressed the Kellogg’s was sincere in its apology.
“We take feedback very seriously, and it was never our intention to offend anyone,” he said. “We apologize sincerely.”
Instead of doubling down on a dumb box art choice, Kellogg’s listened to a reasonable complaint, took it seriously and elected to update their packaging to remedy the problem. Full marks all around. The next step of course is getting to the point where these sorts of repairs don’t need to be made in the first place. Give your marketing a second look, brands.
(Via USA Today)
