Kellogg Recall: Petroleum Byproduct the Smelly Cereal Culprit

(July 15) -- Kellogg's has determined that a petroleum byproduct was behind an unnerving scent that spurred a major cereal recall a few weeks ago.

On June 25, Kellogg's recalled 28 million boxes of Corn Pops, Honey Smacks, Froot Loops and Apple Jacks, after customers complained about a strange odor emanating from the packaging.

Now, the company is reporting that a petrochemical, methylnaphthalene, was the culprit.

What is that?

Methylnaphthalene isn't your average cereal ingredient. It's a substance found in tar and crude oil, but is also a favorite among packaging manufacturers making plastic liners, like those in cereal boxes.

The waxy, resinous compound is also used to coat foods like cheese and fruit.

Is it safe?

Depends who you ask. The petrochemical has obviously been approved by the FDA for use in food packaging, but the levels found in the Kellogg's bags exceeded normal limits -- that's why consumers started complaining of a scent, as well as nausea and diarrhea.

In studies on animals, it's been linked to serious lung damage when consumed or inhaled.

And the Environmental Working Group, which first spurred Kellogg's to release the information, is warning that health experts don't know enough about methylnaphthalene to make it safe.

"What little we do know about the history of this chemical is checkered at best," Dave Andrews, a scientist with EWG, said in a statement. "I think it's important for federal public health agencies like the EPA and FDA to know everything there is to know about the possible risks this fossil fuel could pose to people's health."

So, should I switch to doughnuts?

With any luck, clarity on chemical byproducts in your cereal lining is on the way.

The FDA is conducting its own investigation into methylnaphthalene, as well as one into the Kellogg's recall.

The U.S. Senate is also currently reviewing legislation that would allow the FDA to issue immediate, mandatory recalls.